Troubleshoot streaming and video issues

If your movie, show or on demand content keeps buffering, lagging or isn't playing correctly, try one of these solutions to fix issues on your computer or mobile device. If you're having issues on your TV, try these steps. These troubleshooting steps can help with most playback issues and errors.

If you've tried these steps and your video is still not playing correctly, you can test watching on a different supported device.

Fix video issues on your computer

Examples of common error messages:
  • Sorry, there was an error while licensing this video.
  • This video requires payment.
  • An error occurred. Please try again later.
  • We are experiencing problems with our servers. Please try again later.
  • Something went wrong.

If you get an error similar to the ones above, try these steps:

  • Make sure that your computer is up to date.
  • Close and re-open your web browser.
  • If you have lots of browser tabs open, try to close most of them except for the one that you're using for YouTube.
  • Update your browser to the latest version.
  • Use Google Chrome as your browser.
  • Restart your device.

Fix problems with buffering or loading videos

For the best experience, use the YouTube app. If you're using a different app, switch to the YouTube app or visit youtube.com in your browser.

For an ad-free experience, consider YouTube Premium.

Step 1: Try a different Internet connection

Change your Internet connection, then replay your video.

  • If you're connected to your mobile network: connect to Wi-Fi.
  • If you're connected to Wi-Fi: connect to your mobile network. Note: Data rates may apply.

Step 2: Delete the app's cache

  1. On your device, open the settings app.
  2. Tap Apps and notifications and then See all apps.
  3. Tap YouTube.
  4. Tap Storage and cache and then Clear cache.
  5. Replay your video.

Fix problems with your film getting stuck

On the film's timeline, tap fast forward to the next couple of scenes to see if the film will start playing normally again.

If this action doesn't help, try closing and re-opening your app. If you're still having trouble, check for any app updates, then try replaying your video.

Fix problems with missing purchases in your library

If you've bought films or shows but can't see them in your library, you may be logged in to a Brand Account. To see your films and shows, you can switch to your personal account. You can also check to see whether you have a Brand Account.

To switch to a different channel that you manage:

  1. Go to your profile picture .
  2. Tap the arrow next to your name.
  3. To start using that account, tap on a channel in the list.

Fix video issues on your TV

Send feedback

You can submit feedback about issues watching videos on the YouTube app by going to your profile icon and then Help and feedback and then Send feedback directly after your playback problem.

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