YouTube is the biggest video platform in the world, but nothing is more annoying than trying to watch a video and seeing the message: “This video is unavailable. Error code: 4.” This error can appear on phones, laptops, or even smart TVs, and it blocks you from streaming completely.
The good news is that error code 4 is fixable. In this guide, we’ll explain what it means, why it happens, and the step-by-step solutions you can use on any device.
What Does YouTube Error Code 4 Mean?
Error code 4 is a YouTube playback error. It means your device failed to load the video properly from YouTube’s servers. This can happen for many reasons: the app may be outdated, the browser cache may be corrupted, or the internet connection may be too weak.
The error looks the same across devices. On phones, browsers, or smart TVs, you’ll see the dark screen with the text: “This video is unavailable. Error code: 4.” Importantly, this doesn’t always mean the video is deleted — most times, it’s a technical issue on your end.
Common Causes of Error Code 4
Here are the main reasons why this error appears:
- Weak or unstable internet connection
- Outdated YouTube app or browser version
- Corrupted cache, cookies, or app data
- VPN or proxy interference
- YouTube server outage or temporary glitch
- Outdated system software on your device
How to Fix YouTube Error Code 4
Here are the best fixes. Work through them one at a time until the error clears.
Fix #1: Restart the App or Browser
Restarting is often all it takes. On mobile, swipe away the YouTube app so it fully closes, then reopen it. On a PC, shut down your browser, not just the tab, before relaunching YouTube. Many users find that the error disappears right after this.
Fix #2: Restart Your Device
A simple reboot refreshes memory and clears glitches.
Here are the steps:
- Power off your phone, computer, or smart TV.
- Leave it off for 30–60 seconds.
- Restart the device.
- Open YouTube again to test playback.
Fix #3: Update the YouTube App or Browser
Outdated software is one of the most common reasons for playback errors. Open your device’s app store (Google Play, App Store, Roku, or TV store) and check for updates. On PC or Mac, go into your browser’s settings and update Chrome, Firefox, or Edge. Once updated, restart YouTube and try again.
Fix #4: Clear Cache and Cookies
Cached files get corrupted over time and block playback.
On Android:
- Go to Settings > Apps > YouTube > Storage.
- Tap Clear Cache, then Clear Data.
- Restart the app.
On iPhone/iPad: delete and reinstall the app — that clears stored data automatically.
On browsers:
- Open Settings > Privacy > Clear Browsing Data.
- Select cookies and cached images.
- Confirm and restart the browser.
Fix #5: Check Internet Connection
Often, the problem isn’t YouTube, it’s the connection. Restart your router and modem to refresh the signal. Run a quick speed test — YouTube streams best above 5 Mbps. If Wi-Fi feels weak, move closer to the router or use a wired connection for stability.
Fix #6: Disable VPN or Proxy
If you’re running a VPN or proxy, turn it off and reconnect usually. YouTube sometimes blocks these connections, and that alone can trigger error code 4.
Fix #7: Reinstall the YouTube App
If the error persists, reinstalling may be the most effective solution:
- Uninstall the YouTube app from your device.
- Restart the device to clear leftover files.
- Download the app again from the official store.
- Log back in and test playback.
Fix #8: Update Device Software
Sometimes the device itself is the issue. Outdated system software can cause errors across apps.
On Windows:
- Click the Start (Windows icon).
- Go to Settings > Update & Security.
- Select Windows Update.
- Click Check for updates and install if available.
- Restart your PC.
On Mac: open System Preferences > Software Update and install pending updates.
On Smart TVs or streaming devices: check Settings > About > System Update.
On iOS/Android: go to Settings > General > Software Update (iOS) or Settings > System > Software Update (Android).
Once updated, reopen YouTube and try again.
Fix #9: Contact YouTube Support
If nothing works, the problem might be on YouTube’s end. Use the YouTube Help Center or the in-app Send Feedback option. Make sure you include your device type, the error code, and the fixes you’ve already tried so support can help faster.
Prevention Tips to Fix
To keep error code 4 from showing up again, here are some easy habits:
- Keep the YouTube app and your browser updated.
- Restart your router once a week.
- Clear app cache or browser cookies regularly.
- Avoid using VPNs or proxies when streaming YouTube.
- Update your phone, PC, or TV software when prompted.
Conclusion
YouTube error code 4 means your device isn’t able to load videos properly from YouTube’s servers. Most of the time, the cause is something simple like bad cache, a weak connection, or an outdated app.
Restarting, clearing the cache, and checking your internet usually fix it. If not, reinstalling the app or updating your device should help. And when all else fails, contacting YouTube support or waiting for server fixes is the best option. By following prevention tips, you’ll reduce the chance of this error interrupting your next video.