If YouTube is not working, videos may keep buffering, the app may crash, or you may see a black screen with no picture or sound. These problems are often caused by a weak internet connection, an outdated app, browser extensions, corrupted temporary files, or a temporary YouTube service disruption. Before resetting your device or reinstalling the app, check your connection, restart YouTube, and test another video. The solutions below explain how to fix common YouTube problems on Android, iPhone, Windows, Mac, and smart TVs.
Quick Checks Before You Start
Try these simple steps first:
- Open another website to check your internet connection.
- Play a different YouTube video.
- Close and reopen YouTube.
- Switch between Wi-Fi and mobile data if possible.
- Restart your device.
- Check for app or browser updates.
If YouTube works on another device using the same network, the issue may be with your original device or app. If it fails across multiple devices and networks, check whether YouTube is experiencing a wider disruption.
1. Check Whether YouTube Is Down
Sometimes YouTube stops working because of a temporary service problem. In that situation, changing your phone settings or reinstalling the app may not help.
What to do:
- Open another website to confirm that your internet works.
- Try YouTube on another device.
- Check Downdetector’s YouTube status page.
- Look for recent reports that match your problem.
- If many people are reporting similar issues, wait and try again later.
Why this works: It helps you determine whether the problem is limited to your device or may affect other users.
Downdetector relies on user reports, so a spike in reports is an indication of possible trouble, not official confirmation of an outage.
2. Check Your Internet Connection
A slow or unstable connection can prevent YouTube videos from loading or cause frequent buffering.
Try these steps:
- Open another website or streaming service.
- Move closer to your Wi-Fi router if the signal is weak.
- Pause large downloads and other bandwidth-heavy activities.
- Restart your router if several devices have connection problems.
- Test your speed using Speedtest.
- Return to YouTube and try playing the video again.
YouTube’s official video troubleshooting guide gives these approximate sustained connection speeds:
- 360p: 0.7 Mbps
- 480p: 1.1 Mbps
- 720p: 2.5 Mbps
- 1080p: 5 Mbps
- 4K: 20 Mbps
These are recommendations, not guarantees. Network stability and congestion also affect playback.
Why this works: YouTube needs a steady flow of data to play videos smoothly. If your connection cannot keep up, playback may pause while the video loads.
3. Restart YouTube and Your Device
If your internet works but YouTube freezes or refuses to open, restart the app before changing other settings.
On Android or iPhone:
- Open the recent-apps screen.
- Swipe YouTube away to close it.
- Reopen the app.
- Try playing a video.
On Windows or Mac:
- Close the YouTube tab.
- Close and reopen your browser if necessary.
- Visit YouTube.
- Test the video again.
If the problem continues, restart your phone or computer.
Why this works: Restarting closes unresponsive processes and gives the app or browser a fresh start.
If your Samsung phone also freezes or repeatedly restarts outside YouTube, see our guide to Samsung Galaxy boot loop problems.
4. Clear YouTube Cache on Android
Temporary files can sometimes contribute to loading problems or app crashes. Clearing the cache is worth trying if YouTube continues to misbehave after restarting it.
How to clear the cache:
- Open Settings on your phone.
- Tap Apps or Applications.
- Select YouTube.
- Open Storage or Storage and cache.
- Tap Clear cache.
- Reopen YouTube and test a video.
Menu names vary between Android phones.
Why this works: Removing temporary files can help when cached data contributes to app problems.
Important: Choose Clear cache, not Clear data or Clear storage, as your first step. Clearing app data can reset settings or remove locally stored information.
Screenshot suggestion: Add an original screenshot showing Settings → Apps → YouTube → Storage → Clear cache. Hide personal information.
For more guidance, visit YouTube’s official streaming and video troubleshooting guide.
5. Update the YouTube App
An outdated app may have bugs or compatibility problems that affect playback.
On Android:
- Open the Google Play Store.
- Search for YouTube.
- Open the official app listing.
- Tap Update if available.
- Reopen YouTube and test it.
On iPhone or iPad:
- Open the App Store.
- Find YouTube.
- Tap Update if available.
- Open the app and try playing a video.
Why this works: Updates can provide bug fixes, performance improvements, and compatibility changes.
If YouTube is already updated, check whether your phone’s operating system supports the installed version. For account-related problems, see the official YouTube sign-in troubleshooting guide.
6. Fix YouTube Not Working in Chrome or Another Browser
If YouTube works in its mobile app but not in Chrome, the problem may involve stored website data, cookies, extensions, or the browser itself.
Try an incognito window
- Open a new incognito or private window.
- Visit YouTube.
- Play a video.
If YouTube works there, something in your normal browsing session may be interfering with playback.
Clear YouTube’s site data
In Chrome:
- Open Settings.
- Go to Privacy and security.
- Find the site-data or cookie controls.
- Locate YouTube’s stored data and remove it.
- Reload YouTube and sign in again if necessary.
The exact menu names depend on your Chrome version. Removing cookies may sign you out or reset site preferences.
Check browser extensions
Temporarily disable extensions that affect video playback, privacy, scripts, or network requests. Test YouTube, then enable the extensions one at a time to identify a possible conflict.
Also make sure your browser is up to date.
Why this works: Private browsing and extension testing help identify whether the issue comes from your browser configuration rather than YouTube itself.
For more troubleshooting, consult YouTube’s official streaming and video troubleshooting guide.
7. Check Your VPN or Network Restrictions
A VPN, proxy, custom DNS service, or network-filtering application can sometimes interfere with YouTube connections.
What to do:
- Check whether YouTube fails only when your VPN is active.
- Temporarily disconnect the VPN if appropriate.
- Reload YouTube and test playback.
- Review any custom DNS or filtering settings for blocked YouTube domains.
- If you are using a school or workplace network, ask the administrator whether YouTube access is restricted.
Why this works: These services can change how your device connects to online platforms.
Avoid installing unknown applications that claim to repair YouTube or changing security settings without understanding the consequences.
8. Lower Video Quality if YouTube Keeps Buffering
If YouTube opens but videos repeatedly pause, try reducing the playback resolution.
Follow these steps:
- Open the video.
- Tap or click the player’s Settings icon.
- Select Quality.
- Choose a lower resolution, such as 480p or 360p.
- Resume playback and check whether buffering improves.
Why this works: Lower-resolution video generally requires less bandwidth.
For example, if 1080p buffers but 480p plays smoothly, your connection may not be able to sustain the higher resolution. Once your connection improves, you can select a higher quality again.
9. Fix YouTube Not Working on a Smart TV
YouTube problems on Samsung, LG, Sony, and other smart TVs can result from connection issues, app errors, or outdated software.
Restart the app and TV
- Exit YouTube using your remote.
- Open the app again and test another video.
- If it still fails, turn off the TV.
- Unplug its power cable for at least 30 seconds.
- Reconnect the cable, turn on the TV, and open YouTube.
Why this works: A full power cycle can clear temporary app and operating-system problems.
Check the internet connection
- Open your TV’s network settings.
- Confirm that Wi-Fi or Ethernet is connected.
- Run the network test if available.
- If other devices also have problems, restart the router.
- Test YouTube again.
Update the app and TV software
Check the television’s app-management settings for a YouTube update. Then check the system settings for available firmware updates.
For Samsung-specific help, read our guides to Samsung Smart Hub not working and Samsung apps not working on TV.
You can also consult YouTube’s official streaming and video troubleshooting guide.
10. Fix a Black Screen, Missing Picture, or No Sound
If YouTube opens but the screen remains black or the video plays without sound, try the steps that match your problem.
YouTube shows a black screen
- Try another video.
- Refresh the page or close and reopen the app.
- On a computer, test YouTube in a private window.
- Temporarily disable browser extensions that affect playback.
- Update YouTube or your browser.
- Restart your device if the problem continues.
If only one video fails, the issue may be specific to that content.
YouTube has no sound
- Check the volume inside the YouTube player.
- Make sure your device is not muted.
- On a computer, check whether the browser tab is muted.
- Confirm that sound is going to the correct speakers, headphones, or Bluetooth device.
- Play audio in another app.
Why this works: Sound can be muted or routed incorrectly at the player, browser, operating-system, or audio-device level.
If other apps also have no sound, check your device’s audio settings instead of focusing only on YouTube.
11. Check Date, Time, Storage, and System Updates
If YouTube continues crashing or failing to connect, check these less obvious causes.
- Date and time: Enable automatic date and time settings where available. Incorrect system time can interfere with some secure connections.
- Storage: If your phone is nearly full, remove unnecessary files or safely move personal media to another location.
- System updates: Check for available operating-system or TV firmware updates and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Why this works: Apps depend on the operating system, available resources, and correct device settings. Problems in these areas can affect YouTube even when your internet connection works.
12. Sign Out and Back In if Your Account Has a Problem
If YouTube works when signed out but fails with a particular account, check your account settings and sign-in status.
- Open YouTube and select your profile picture.
- Confirm that you are using the intended account.
- If necessary, sign out and sign back in.
- On a smart TV, follow the app’s instructions to reconnect your Google Account.
- Test playback again.
Before signing out, make sure you know how to access your account and complete any required verification.
Why this works: Signing in again can refresh an authentication session. It will not fix a service outage or weak internet connection.
For further help, use YouTube’s official sign-in troubleshooting guide.
13. Reinstall YouTube as a Last Resort
If YouTube still crashes after you restart it, clear the Android cache where applicable, and install available updates, reinstalling may help.
On iPhone or iPad:
- Make sure you can access your Google Account.
- Remove YouTube using the normal app controls.
- Open the App Store.
- Install the official YouTube app again.
- Open it and test playback.
On Android: Some phones allow YouTube to be uninstalled, while others include it as a preinstalled system app. Use the available app-management options or Play Store instructions. Avoid unofficial tools for removing system components.
On smart TVs: Reinstalling options vary by manufacturer and model. Follow the TV manufacturer’s instructions and be prepared to sign in again.
Why this works: Reinstallation can replace damaged app files and reset some app-level problems. It will not solve every account, network, hardware, or service issue.
Avoid a factory reset unless other troubleshooting options have failed and you understand that it can erase personal data.
Common YouTube Problems and What to Try
| Problem | Possible cause | First solution |
|---|---|---|
| YouTube will not open | App error or service disruption | Restart the app and check for outages |
| Videos keep buffering | Slow or unstable connection | Test the connection and lower video quality |
| Android app crashes | Temporary files or compatibility | Clear cache and update the app |
| YouTube fails in Chrome | Site data or extensions | Test incognito mode and check extensions |
| Smart TV app will not load | Network or app problem | Power-cycle the TV and check for updates |
| Black screen | Playback or browser issue | Try another video or browser |
| No sound | Muted player or wrong output | Check volume and audio settings |
| One account has problems | Sign-in issue | Check the account and sign-in status |
| Several devices fail | Network or service disruption | Test another network and check outage reports |
Frequently Asked Questions about YouTube stops working
Why is YouTube not working today?
It may be a temporary service disruption, a connection problem, or a device-specific issue. Test another website and device, then check Downdetector. If the problem appears widespread, wait before making major changes.
Why does YouTube work on my computer but not my phone?
Your phone may have an outdated app, restricted internet access, or temporary files causing problems. Restart YouTube, check its connection permissions, update the app, and clear the cache on Android.
Why does YouTube buffer even with fast internet?
A speed test does not tell the whole story. Network congestion, unstable Wi-Fi, interference, and video resolution can all affect playback. Try lowering quality, moving closer to the router, and pausing downloads.
Will clearing YouTube cache delete my account?
Clearing the Android app cache normally removes temporary files rather than your Google Account or subscriptions. Clearing app data or storage is different and can reset settings or remove locally stored information.
Why is YouTube not working in Chrome?
Stored site data, browser extensions, an outdated browser, or connection problems may be responsible. Test an incognito window, update Chrome, and temporarily disable extensions that may interfere with playback.
Why does YouTube work on my phone but not my smart TV?
The TV may have a network problem, outdated software, or an app error. Restart YouTube, unplug the TV for at least 30 seconds, check the connection, and install available updates.
Why is YouTube showing a black screen?
Try another video, refresh the page, restart the app, and test another browser or device. If the issue occurs only with one video, the problem may be specific to that content.
Should I factory-reset my phone if YouTube is not working?
No. Start by checking your internet connection, restarting YouTube, clearing the Android cache, updating the app, and testing another browser or device. A factory reset deletes personal data and may not fix the underlying problem.
Can a VPN stop YouTube from working?
A VPN can contribute to connection or playback problems in some circumstances. Temporarily disconnect it, where appropriate, and test YouTube again. If that fixes the issue, investigate the VPN or network configuration.
How can I tell whether YouTube or my internet is the problem?
Open another website, test YouTube on a second device, and switch between Wi-Fi and mobile data if possible. If other websites also fail, investigate your connection. If YouTube fails across several devices and networks, a wider service problem is more plausible.
Final Thoughts: YouTube stops working
When YouTube stops working, start with your internet connection, restart the app, and test another video. If the problem continues, choose the solution that matches your device: clear the cache on Android, check site data and extensions in your browser, or restart and update the app on your smart TV.
If YouTube fails across multiple devices, check for a wider service disruption before reinstalling apps or resetting equipment. Test after each change so you can identify the cause without making unnecessary adjustments.
Most YouTube problems can be investigated with a few straightforward checks. Work through them in order, and you can narrow down the cause without immediately resorting to a factory reset.