Quick Summary
The error code DRM_E_CONTENT_LOCKED indicates that the Digital Rights Management (DRM) system has locked the content, preventing playback. This typically means there's an issue with the license required to play the media, or that the system believes the content is being accessed in an unauthorized manner.
Common Causes
- License Issue: The digital license required to play the content is missing, corrupted, or has expired. This can happen if the license wasn't properly downloaded or activated.
- System Clock Error: The system clock is incorrect, causing the DRM system to misinterpret the license validity period or detect tampering. An incorrect clock can interfere with license verification.
- Component Updates Missing: Required DRM components, such as PlayReady or Widevine, are outdated or missing from the system. The media player may not be able to properly validate the content license.
- Conflicting Software: Other software on your system, such as security software or VPNs, may be interfering with the DRM system. Firewalls or antivirus programs blocking DRM validation are possibilities.
- Content Protection Levels: Your device, and its drivers may not meet the minimum content protection levels required for playback of certain media. Some content owners impose strict protection policies.
Step-by-Step Fixes
Method 1: Acquire or Renew the License
Step 1: Close the media player application.
Step 2: Re-open the media player and attempt to play the content again. This may trigger a prompt to acquire/renew the license.
Step 3: Follow any on-screen instructions to download and activate the necessary license. You may need to log in again.
Method 2: Sync System Clock
Step 1: Right-click on the clock in the system tray.
Step 2: Select 'Adjust date/time'.
Step 3: Ensure 'Set time automatically' is enabled. If it's already enabled, toggle it off and then back on.
Step 4: Click 'Sync now' to manually synchronize the clock with a time server.
Method 3: Update DRM Components
Step 1: Open Windows Update in Settings (Settings -> Update & Security -> Windows Update).
Step 2: Click 'Check for updates'. Windows will search for and install any available updates, including DRM components.
Step 3: Restart your computer after the updates are installed.
Method 4: Disable Conflicting Software
Step 1: Temporarily disable any VPN software that is running.
Step 2: Temporarily disable your anti-virus or firewall software.
Step 3: Attempt playing the content again.
Step 4: If the content plays, add exceptions for the media player executable to these security applications.
Step 5: Re-enable the VPN and/or anti-virus software.
Method 5: Check Graphics Drivers
Step 1: Open Device Manager (search for "Device Manager" in the Start Menu)
Step 2: Expand the "Display adapters" section.
Step 3: Right-click on your graphics card and select "Update driver".
Step 4: Select "Search automatically for drivers" and follow the on-screen instructions.
Step 5: Restart you computer.