Why won't my downloaded programme play?

BBC iPlayer Desktop

If you are experiencing problems check out the known issues. If you do use the Contact Us form, please give us much information as you can to help us.

Windows Media Player downloads

If you can only view the ten second BBC ident trailer then get a blank screen, you will need to alter your digital rights management (DRM) settings in Windows Media Player.

Windows Media Player licence settings

Whether you're trying to play your downloaded programme in your BBC iPlayer Download Manager or in Windows Media Player (WMP), you need to make sure that WMP is set to acquire licences and rights automatically.

If you have made these changes and still have problems, you may need to see the advice on a DRM reset for Windows XP or Windows Vista.

DRM licence has expired

The DRM licence (your programme licence) has expired which means it can't be played. A programmes is usually automatically deleted from your BBC iPlayer Download Manager once its licence has expired. If your computer wasn't connected to the internet when the licence expired, it's possible the programme may still be visible in your Download Manager.

Corrupt DRM licence

There may be a data problem with the programme's DRM licence. If you can still download the programme, delete the one in your Download Manager and try downloading again.

Network connection

There could be a temporary problem with the network connection, in which case try again later. The BBC's servers are constantly monitored and so if there is a problem it'll be quickly found and fixed.

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For further help you can Contact Us, or you can discuss this issue at the BBC iPlayer messageboard.