Widevine Content Decryption Module is a digital rights management (DRM) component used by Google Chrome and other browsers to play encrypted content, such as video streaming services. However, users may encounter errors related to the Widevine module, such as the “Widevine Content Decryption Module Update Error.” This error typically occurs when the Widevine module is out of date or corrupted, preventing users from accessing or playing protected content.
Fortunately, there are several solutions available to fix the Widevine Content Decryption Module Update Error. Depending on the root cause of the error, users can try updating the Widevine module, clearing browser data, disabling browser extensions, or reinstalling the browser altogether. In this guide, we will explore each of these solutions in more detail, providing step-by-step instructions to help you resolve the Widevine Content Decryption Module Update Error and enjoy your favorite streaming content without interruption.
What is Widevine Content Decryption Module?
Widevine Content Decryption Module is a Google Chrome extension for playing digitally protected content using HTML5. Google Chrome and some new versions of Mozilla Firefox install this extension by default. This plugin is one of the pre-installed extensions is Google Chrome.
Google Chrome and other web browsers use this plug-in to deliver DRM Protected HTML5 video/audio content. If you remove or disable this content from your browser then you will not be able to play videos from many popular sites such as Netflix and Amazon.
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Why I am seeing Widevine Content Decryption Module Update Error?
Sometimes when you visit a site which uses HTML5 videos such as Netflix, then you might have seen an error saying “Widevine content decryption module component not updated.” This error commonly occurs due to the following reasons:
- You may have disabled this plugin and now the website requires it in order to play videos.
- The plugin failed to update itself.
- You may have removed the plugin.
- Login files have been corrupted by a malware or virus.
- The extension is crashed.
When you are facing this issue on certain websites then it will not affect other search engines you can still browse other websites. However, you are not allowed to play DRM protected audio/video content.
Is this Issue Only related to Google Chrome Browser?
Although many people report “Widevine content decryption module update Chrome” error you can also encounter this error in other browsers too.
Widevine Content Decryption Module Firefox
Firefox resisted implementing this plug-in for long. Firefox 51 and below use Adobe CDM to play DRM protected videos.
Since, the official release of Firefox 47, Mozilla has also started supporting Google Widevine plugin. Just like Chrome, this plugin is also installed in Firefox. It runs in a sandbox and your browser will notify you when a website starts this plugin.
Widevine Content Decryption Module Opera
Opera browser doesn’t support HTML5 videos. Websites like Amazon Prime and other streaming DRM-protected videos require HTML5, they won’t play in Opera browser.
However, some DRM protected videos don’t require an HTML5 video player. You can easily play HTML5 video clips in Opera Browser using third-party plugins like Adobe Flash.
You can also switch to other web browsers to view DRM-protected video.
Are there any other extensions to Play DRM-Protected vides?
Google Widevine is becoming the most popular plugin to play DRM-protected videos. However, some browsers use third-party plugins to play digitally secured video content.
For instance, Microsoft Edge browser uses Microsoft Silverlight to play digitally protected videos. Similarly, Opera Browser uses Adobe Flash to play such kind of contents.
How to fix the Widevine Content Decryption Module Error?
It is easy to fix the Widevine error. Choose any of the methods given below depending upon the browser you are using.
Fix for Google Chrome Browser
In Google Chrome you can face three major problems with Widevine extension.
- The extension is not installed.
- You have an old version of Widevine and you cannot update it to a newer version.
We will have a look at each of these states individually and provide a fix. Depending on what error you face you can follow the methods below.
Method – 1: Fix for the error “The plugin is not installed”
When you browse a website that plays DRM-Protected HTML5 content, you may have seen an error about missing Widevine module. Follow the instructions given below to fix that error.
- Uninstall Google Chrome from your computer.
- Go to the official Google Chrome download page.
- Download and install the browser
- When the browser installs, it will automatically get installed in the Widevine content module for your ease.
Now you can visit Netflix or Amazon Prime and play your favorite video. You will have a smooth experience without any errors.
Method – 2: Fix for the error “Widevine is not updated”
When you have an old version Widevine add-on, you will see an error when trying to play DRM-protected content. Follow the steps mentioned below:
- Type “chrome://components” in Google Chrome then hit enter.
- Locate Widevine extension
- Click the Update button under the add-on
- Your browser will update the plugin within a few seconds.
Fix for Mozilla Firefox browser
For Firefox browser follow the steps below to fix this error
- Click on the menu button in the firefox browser.
- Choose add-ons from options.
- Select plug-ins when the add-ons manager pops up.
- Locate Widevine content decryption module provided by Google, Inc. in the list of installed add-ons.
- Select the option “Always Active” on the menu next to the Windows extension.
- Restart your browser.
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FAQ’s:
Q1. What is the Widevine content decryption module?
Widevine Content Decryption Module is a pre-installed plugin in Chrome browser which allows websites to play DRM-Protected HTML5 video and audio content.
Q2. Is Widevine available for other browsers?
Yes, Widevine Content Decryption Module is also available for browsers such as Mozilla Firefox. This extension is pre-installed in the latest updates of Firefox.
Q3. Why is my Widevine Content Decryption Module not updating?
The update may not be happening because of a problem with your internet connection or firewall settings. Try checking your network settings or temporarily disabling your firewall to see if that resolves the issue.
Q4. What should I do if the Widevine Content Decryption Module is missing or not working?
If the module is missing or not working, try reinstalling it from the Chrome Web Store or resetting your browser to its default settings. You can also try contacting the content provider or your device manufacturer for further assistance.
Q5. How can I prevent the Widevine Content Decryption Module update error in the future?
To prevent the error, make sure to keep your browser and its components up to date, avoid installing suspicious or unauthorized software, and use a reliable internet connection when streaming content.