Netflix’s download feature offers a convenient way to enjoy your favorite shows and movies offline, whether during a flight or while traveling. However, this functionality comes with limitations. Downloads are only available for a limited time and may disappear entirely if content is removed from the platform.

In July 2024 Netflix announced it would discontinue its download feature for Windows users, marking a significant change for anyone relying on their PC for offline viewing. This means videos downloaded on the Netflix app for Windows will soon be inaccessible. Many users have already received notifications about this update, leaving frequent travelers and offline viewers searching for alternatives.

If you want to preserve your Netflix downloads permanently and bypass these restrictions, this guide will explore practical methods to secure your content for uninterrupted offline access.

Part 1: Why do downloaded shows expire on Netflix?

Netflix downloads are valid for 48 hours to 30 days, varying by the content. After you begin viewing, they typically end within 2 to 7 days. When a download is set to expire in less than 7 days, Netflix displays a countdown timer. Downloads can also be deleted if the title exits Netflix because of licensing or copyright problems.

Here are what leads to the expiration of Netflix downloads –

• Content Security: Expiration dates are mainly implemented to respect licensing contracts with content creators and to adhere to digital rights management (DRM) regulations. These actions guarantee that downloaded material is not improperly used or unlawfully shared.
• Strategy for Retaining Subscriptions: Through the establishment of download expiration, Netflix motivates users to maintain their subscription status. The system acts as a gentle nudge to remain subscribed for those who wish to maintain access to offline materials.

Part 2: Understanding Netflix’s Download Limitations

Netflix provides the ease of downloading content for offline watching. However, there are several restrictions associated with this feature —

Expiration Rules

• Once you start watching a download, it typically expires within 48 hours to 7 days, depending on the content.
• Downloads may remain valid for up to 30 days, but this varies by title and licensing agreements.
• Netflix shows a timer for downloads set to expire within 7 days, ensuring you know when access will be revoked.

Device-Specific Limits

• Account Restrictions: The number of devices allowed for downloads depends on your Netflix plan:
• Basic Plan: 1 device.
• Standard Plan: 2 devices.
• Premium Plan: 4 devices.
• Simultaneous Downloads: You cannot exceed the device limit for active downloads, and adding new downloads might require removing old ones from a device.

Pro Tips: You can Resolve Netflix Downloads on Too Many Devices.

Content-Specific Restrictions

• Non-Downloadable Titles: Some movies and shows cannot be downloaded due to licensing restrictions. These are typically marked with a "Download Not Available" message.
• Variable Expiry: Certain titles may expire faster or have stricter playback limitations due to specific licensing agreements.
• Geo-Restrictions: Downloads might become unavailable if you travel to a country where the title is not licensed for streaming.

Part 3: Methods to Save Netflix Downloads Forever

To make sure your Netflix downloads extend beyond the typical expiration period, there are several techniques you can attempt.

Method 1. Using StreamFox for Video to Download Netflix Forever

To save Netflix downloads permanently, utilize third-party software that enables you to download streaming media in different formats and qualities. One-stop Streaming Video Downloader—StreamFox for Video provides a smooth and effective method for downloading videos from well-known streaming services. This includes Netflix, Amazon Prime, Hulu, HBO Max, etc. It guarantees that your downloads will remain available even if you don't have an Internet connection or your subscription expires. StreamFox is appealing to both occasional watchers and dedicated streamers.

Features

• Provides video resolutions ranging from 1080p to 4K for an engaging viewing experience.
• Enables downloads in MP4, MKV, and MOV formats for device compatibility.
• Reaches speeds that are up to 10 times faster than conventional techniques.
• Allows you to download several videos simultaneously, conserving your time.
• Select from soft, hardcoded, or external subtitles, and transform them into SRT or VTT formats.

Keep Netflix downloads forever using StreamFox for Video –

Step 1: Obtain and open the StreamFox for Video app. Select Netflix as your source for videos. Once it loads, log in using your Netflix account details to start the process.

Step 2: Utilize the search feature to input keywords or paste a direct link to the Netflix content you wish to download. You have the option to choose complete seasons or individual episodes based on your preference.

Step 3: Navigate to the “Converting” tab and utilize the “Convert all files to” dropdown list to choose your desired file format (MP4/MOV/MKV)for download.

Step 4: From the “Video Quality” dropdown menu, choose the highest resolution offered for optimal viewing enjoyment. Furthermore, modify the audio and subtitle options based on your language choices.

Step 5: When you’re happy with your settings, click “Convert All” to start downloading your selected Netflix content. Once the download has finished, go to the “Finished” area and click the “View Output File” icon to access your downloaded files and watch Netflix together with your friends and family.

Method 2. Screen Recording for Offline Access

Eassiy Screen Recorder Ultimate is a multifunctional screen recording software filled with more than 10 robust features. It accommodates various recording requirements, such as capturing online videos, live streaming content, gaming experiences, and even mobile displays. Featuring advanced options such as customizable recording zones, live annotations, and integrated editing tools, it provides users with an effective and professional recording experience.

Follow these steps to save Netflix videos forever using Eassiy Screen Recorder Ultimate –

Step 1: Launch Eassiy Screen Recorder Ultimate and choose “Video Recorder”. You will have the choice to capture the Full Screen, a chosen area, or a particular window. Pick the option that best meets your needs.

Step 2: Enable “System Sound” and “Microphone” to capture both internal audio and external voice. Modify the audio levels with the provided sliders to achieve a balanced sound output while recording.

Step 3: Select “More Settings” to view further options. You can assign hotkeys, activate mouse cursor effects, and select the preferred video output format, like MP4 or MOV. To achieve a clearer audio recording, turn on the noise cancellation feature.

Step 4: After configuring all settings, hit the “REC” button to start recording. While recording, you can use the annotation tools to emphasize important points or insert text in real time. You can also stop or start the recording whenever necessary.

Step 5: Once you have completed, press the “Stop” button. When you’re content, store the video in your preferred location in the selected format.

Part 4: Using Smart Storage Techniques to Optimize Netflix Downloads

Below are some smart storage tips to optimize Netflix downloads –

Choose the Right Download Quality

Netflix provides 3 options for download quality: Standard, High, and Best Quality. To conserve space on your device, opt for Standard or High quality.

How to adjust Netflix download Quality:

• Open the Netflix app.
• Go to App Settings.
• Select Video Quality and choose your preferred option.

Leverage External Storage on Supported Devices

For Android Devices and Chromebooks: If your device has an SD card slot, you can save downloads directly to the card.

How to Configure Netflix Downloads to Save on an SD Card:

1. Open the Netflix app.

2. Navigate to App Settings > Download Location.

3. Choose SD Card as the default storage option.

This frees up internal storage for other uses.

Manage Existing Downloads

Periodically delete titles you've already watched to prevent storage issues.

To remove Netflix downloads:

1. Open the Netflix app.

2. Go to Downloads.

3. Tap the title and select Delete Download.

You can also view Netflix’s total storage usage under App Settings and remove unnecessary files.

Invest in High-Capacity Devices

If you frequently download a lot of material, think about acquiring a device with greater internal storage or one that allows external storage options, such as SD cards. This will simplify the storage of your preferred shows and films.

Periodic Storage Cleanup

Regularly clear unused files to maintain space for new downloads.

Use features like:

• Android Smart Storage: Automatically deletes backed-up photos and videos.
• iOS Offload Unused Apps: Removes unused apps without deleting your data.

Incorporating a cleanup routine helps optimize device storage for Netflix and other apps.

FAQs

Q. Can I legally keep Netflix downloads forever?

No, Netflix downloads cannot be kept forever. They are meant for temporary personal use and typically expire after 7 days, or 48 hours once you start watching. Additionally, some titles limit the number of downloads per year due to licensing agreements.

Netflix’s terms also strictly prohibit saving or sharing downloads outside the app. For these reasons, it is not legally possible to retain Netflix downloads indefinitely.

Q. What happens to downloads if I cancel my Netflix subscription?

If you terminate your Netflix subscription, you will lose access to all downloaded content. Even if the downloads remain on your device, they will become unavailable without an active subscription.

Q. What tools are safe to use for keeping Netflix downloads?

To retain your Netflix downloads permanently, you may utilize third-party applications such as StreamFox for Video and Eassiy Screen Recorder Ultimate.

Q. How does video quality differ when keeping Netflix downloads permanently?

Utilizing third-party applications or screen capture to maintain Netflix downloads indefinitely could result in a difference in video quality from the original. Although tools such as StreamFox for Video can download content in resolutions reaching 4K, screen recording may yield somewhat lower quality. Nonetheless, both techniques can preserve high quality, although they may not consistently match Netflix's original streaming quality.

Conclusion

Although Netflix downloads are meant to be short-term, using tools such as StreamFox for Video provides a method to retain your beloved content permanently. StreamFox makes it an excellent choice for anyone wanting to maintain their offline viewing experience over time.