Subscription

• The first procedure for gaining access to Netflix's online movie service is to sign up for a subscription. Currently, the company offers a streaming video-only plan, two by-mail DVD-only plans and a plan that combines the two services. The DVD-only plans are offered with Blu-ray selections for an additional cost. Once subscribed, you can view movies via video game consoles, computers or mobile devices.
  
  

Set Up

• You must have either a wired or wireless Internet connection to access Netflix's streaming video service. Movies are watched directly from the company's website using Microsoft Silverlight, an application that acts like Adobe's Flash by allowing you to watch content on a computer. If you don't have what's needed to run Silverlight, you will be prompted to download and install the necessary software when you attempt to watch a streaming video. Similar to a DVD or Blu-ray player, Silverlight gives you standard video playback controls, such as skip, pause, fast forward and rewind. Silverlight is designed for computer use only, but you can access the online movie service on other types of devices, as well.
  
  

Video Game Consoles

• Netflix has developed applications that give you access to its streaming movie services through video game consoles. Designed for the Xbox 360, PlayStation 3 and Nintendo Wii, these applications require you to access the service in different manners based on which console you own. PS3 owners must follow the PlayStation Network option on the device's main screen to access online movies. Xbox 360 users need to obtain an Xbox LIVE Gold membership and then click on "Netflix" from the Video Marketplace to do the same. If Wii is your console of choice, you will need to enter the Wii Shop, where you need to follow onscreen instructions to gain access to the service.
  
  

Mobile Devices and TVs

• You can also access the streaming service using one of several mobile devices, such as the iPad, Windows Phone 7 and iPhone. Mobile device users must first download and install Netflix's special application, available from the device's app store, before using the service. Many electronics companies, such as Panasonic, Sony and Samsung, produce televisions and Blu-ray players that contain built-in Internet connectivity features, which make it possible to access Netflix's online movie service directly on the TV.