After a long and exhausting day, you just want to lay back, relax, and watch your favorite movie or show on Hulu. But then, you see the dreaded Hulu error codes on your screen, and just figuring out what they mean is a pain. Moreover, the Hulu error code can appear for a number of reasons as listed below.
Hulu error codes are never fun to deal with, but they don’t have to be such a mystery. In this article, we’ll list the most prevalent Hulu error codes and 5 ways to fix them.
Table of Contents
What Is a Hulu Error Code?
A Hulu error code is a numeric code that appears when an error occurs while you’re trying to watch Hulu. Moreover, there can be many reasons why an error might occur, but the result is the same: you can’t watch your show or movie.
Most Hulu error codes are self-explanatory, but some are a little vague. Generally, they can be categorized into a few different groups:
Connection issues
Streaming device issues
Account issues
Read on to learn about the most common Hulu error codes and what they mean.
Common Hulu Error Codes And What They Mean
Here are some of the most common Hulu error codes you might see, along with an explanation of what they mean. Since most of these Hulu error codes can be fixed using the same general troubleshooting steps, we’ve grouped them in the next section.
Error Code RUNUNK13
The “RUNUNK13” error code means there’s an issue with your connection. Many factors can cause this error, but the most common are an unstable connection, using a VPN service, or corrupt cookies or cache.
The RUNUNK13 error code may also appear if you’re trying to stream Hulu on a device that doesn’t meet the minimum system requirements.
Error Code P-DEV320
The “P-DEV320” error code is mostly faced by Roku users, and it indicates that there’s a problem with the Hulu app on your Roku device. However, even if you’re not a Roku user, this error code can also be caused by several things, including an unstable internet connection, software issues, or a problem on Hulu’s end.
The majority of the time, the problem is not on your end, so you will not be able to resolve it. However, you can try following the troubleshooting steps in the next section to see if that helps.
Error Code 3
“Error Code 3” is one of the most widely faced Hulu error codes. It is accompanied by various different messages depending on the device you’re using, such as:
Error playing this video
Hulu Error code: 3(-996)
If you have an internet connection problem, please check it and try again. The error code -3 indicates an unexpected problem (not a server timeout or a HTTP error).
There may have been a delay in loading this content, so try again later on.
Hulu error code 3 means that you have a spotty connection. Additionally, the Wi-Fi signal may be weak or unstable, or your Internet provider may be at fault.
The problem is not on Hulu’s end since the accompanying error message says that the problem is with your internet connection.
Error 5003
A frequent playback error that users face is the “5003” error code.
This error is mostly faced because of connectivity issues. If you’re using a public Wi-Fi network, we recommend switching to a different network or connecting to your personal hotspot.
Other causes of this error could be an outdated browser, using a VPN service, or cookies and cache that need to be cleared.
Error Code 16
“Error Code 16” is an invalid region error indicating that the movie, show, or documentary you’re trying to access is not available in your particular region. There is an accompanying error message that reads:
Please note that our video library is only available for streaming within the United States at the moment. In addition, check Hulu’s website for more information on its international availability.
Unlike other popular streaming apps like Netflix, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video, Hulu is strictly available in the United States. Therefore, if you try accessing Hulu from another country, you’ll get the Error Code 16.
A reliable VPN service is the only way to bypass these geo-restrictions and watch Hulu from anywhere in the world. Moreover, free VPNs are more prone to getting blocked by Hulu, so we recommend using a paid VPN service.
500 Error
The Hulu 500 error is another common Hulu error. It means there’s a problem on Hulu’s end, and you don’t have to fix anything on your end. There is an accompanying error message that reads:
A 500 error occurred on this page.
Unfortunately, we have encountered an unexpected error. As soon as we become aware of the issue, we will take the necessary steps to resolve it as quickly as possible.
Hulu app users (iOS, Android, Roku, Fire TV Stick, etc.) are unlikely to face this error since the app uses a different server. This error is mostly faced by users trying to stream Hulu through their website, and refreshing the page usually fixes the problem.
Hulu Protected Content Errors (3343, 3336, 3322, etc.)
Though not as common as other error codes on this list, “Hulu Protected Content Errors” are still faced by some users. Some of these error codes include:
3343
3336
3322
2203
3307
These Hulu error codes usually occur when Hulu thinks you’re trying to record or download their content. Moreover, this could be caused by anything from using multiple secondary devices to having a VGA output on your computer.
The only way to fix these errors is by contacting Hulu’s customer support and asking them to whitelist your IP address.
How To Fix Hulu Error Codes — 5 Methods
There is no one-size-fits-all solution to fix Hulu error codes. That being said, we’ve compiled a list of 5 methods that should help you fix most, if not all, Hulu error codes.
Check Your Connection
Connectivity issues are the main reason you’ll face Hulu error codes in the first place. An unstable or spotty internet connection is the leading cause when it comes to streaming issues.
If you’re using your phone, try switching Wi-Fi networks or connecting to your carrier’s LTE/4G network.
However, if you’re on a desktop or laptop, restart the modem and router. If that doesn’t work, try connecting to a different Wi-Fi network or hardwiring your computer to your router with an Ethernet cable.
Your ISP might also be facing a disruption in your area. You can check for outages by calling your internet service provider or checking their website.
Clear Your Browser’s Cache and Cookies
If you’re getting Hulu error codes in your web browser, one of the first things you should try is clearing your cache and cookies. This is usually helpful in fixing issues caused by outdated data in your browser.
In Google Chrome, you can clear your cache and cookies by following these steps:
Click the three dots in the browser window’s corner.
Simply hover over “More tools” and choose “Clear browsing data.”
There are several items listed in the pop-up window, including “Cached images and files” and “Cookies and other site data.”
There is a requirement to ensure that the “Time range” is set to “All time.”
After clicking the “Clear data” button, the data will be cleared.
Doing so will log you out of all websites, so you’ll need to sign back into any sites you were logged into. If you continue to get Hulu error codes, try the next method.
Restart Your Streaming Device
Most streaming devices have a built-in power cycle/restart function that can fix minor software glitches. Moreover, if you’re getting Hulu error codes on your streaming device, try restarting it.
To restart most streaming devices:
Hold down the power button on your phone, TV, or computer for a few seconds.
The device should be powered on after 10 seconds.
If your device doesn’t have a power button or you’re unsure how to restart it, consult your device’s manual.
Update Your Browser or App
Outdated software can also cause Hulu error codes. If you’re getting errors in your web browser, make sure that you aren’t on an outdated version of your browser. The same goes for any app you might be using to watch Hulu.
To update your Google Chrome browser, click the three dots in the corner of the browser window, hover over “Help,” and click “About Google Chrome.” Any available updates will be automatically installed by your browser.
Make sure to also check your App Store or Google Play Store for updates to the Hulu app.
Contact Hulu Support
After trying all the methods we mentioned and still getting Hulu error codes, your last resort is to contact the support team at Hulu. As soon as they’re able to fix the problem, you’ll be able to watch Hulu again.
Several Hulu error codes are caused by server issues on Hulu’s end. However, if the error you’re facing is server-related, you can’t do much besides waiting for Hulu to fix the issue.
Final Thoughts
Hulu error codes can be an unpleasant interruption to your binge-watching session. Fortunately, they can be fixed relatively easily. If you’re getting Hulu error codes, try one (or all) of the methods above. And if all else fails, contact Hulu support for help.
Read More: