VLC your input cant be opened Youtube

There’s nothing quite as frustrating as settling in for a relaxing YouTube session, only to encounter the dreaded ‘VLC your input can’t be opened’ error. One moment, you’re eager for entertainment, the next, you’re staring at an error message. This persistent problem can put a damper on your viewing pleasure, and suddenly, you’re stuck troubleshooting instead of relaxing.

You might wonder, “What causes this?” or “How can I fix it quickly?” Well, fear not! This comprehensive guide is here to save your day, promising a step-by-step walkthrough to get you back to streaming in no time. Bid adieu to stress, say hello to uninterrupted viewing. Ready to reclaim your VLC media player experience? Let’s dive in!

vlc your input cant be opened youtube

Reasons for the issue

There could be a variety of reasons causing this. Here are the most common ones:

  • Outdated VLC Media Player: You may see the ‘your input can’t be opened’ error if your VLC Media Player is outdated. Like all software, it needs timely updates for seamless function.
  • Inaccurate URL Entry: A minor typo can create major problems. An incorrect URL can lead to this error message. Hence, check the URL before pasting it into VLC.
  • Network Issues: A shaky internet connection may lead to the ‘your input can’t be opened’ error. After all, streaming requires stable connectivity.

How to fix this issue?

Now that we understand the reasons, let’s move towards resolving them.

Fix 1: Update Your VLC Media Player

Updating your VLC media player can be a quick, effective fix for the ‘your input can’t be opened’ error. Here’s how you do it:

  • Step 1: Open VLC Media Player: The first step is simple. Just open your VLC Media Player. You can do this by locating the VLC icon on your desktop or taskbar and clicking on it.
  • Step 2: Access the Help Section: Once you’ve opened the VLC Media Player, find the ‘Help’ option on the menu bar at the top of the VLC window. Click on it to reveal a drop-down menu.
  • Step 3: Check for Updates: In the drop-down menu, you’ll find an option labeled ‘Check for Updates.’ Clicking this option will prompt VLC to search for any available updates.
  • Step 4: Install Updates: If there are updates available, a pop-up window will appear, guiding you through the process of installing the new version of VLC. Follow the instructions provided in this window.
  • Step 5: Restart VLC Media Player: After successfully updating your VLC Media Player, you need to restart it. Close the media player and reopen it to ensure the updates are in effect.

By keeping your VLC Media Player up-to-date, you’re not just potentially resolving the ‘your input can’t be opened’ error. You’re also ensuring your media player is equipped with the latest features and bug fixes, thereby improving your overall user experience.

Fix 2: Verify the URL of the YouTube Video

An incorrectly entered URL can often lead to the ‘VLC your input can’t be opened’ error. Here’s how to verify and correct the YouTube URL:

  • Step 1: Locate the Correct YouTube URL: Open your web browser and go to YouTube. Locate the video you want to watch and click on it. The URL of the video can be found in the address bar at the top of your browser window.
  • Step 2: Copy the YouTube URL: Once you’ve located the URL, you need to copy it. You can do this by clicking on the URL to highlight it, then right-clicking and selecting ‘Copy.’
  • Step 3: Open VLC Media Player: Now open your VLC Media Player. Again, you can do this by locating the VLC icon on your desktop or taskbar and clicking on it.
  • Step 4: Navigate to Open Network Stream: In VLC Media Player, go to ‘Media’ on the menu bar at the top. In the drop-down menu, you’ll find an option labeled ‘Open Network Stream.’ Click on this option.
  • Step 5: Paste the YouTube URL: In the ‘Open Network Stream’ window, you’ll see a field labeled ‘Please enter a network URL.’ Click on this field and paste the YouTube URL that you copied earlier.
  • Step 6: Play the Video: Finally, click on the ‘Play’ button to start streaming your YouTube video.
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By ensuring the URL of the YouTube video is correctly entered into VLC, you can often resolve the ‘VLC your input can’t be opened’ error and get back to enjoying your video content.

Fix 3: Check and Improve Your Internet Connection

A weak or unstable internet connection is a common cause for the ‘VLC your input can’t be opened’ error. Here’s how to check and improve your connection:

  • Step 1: Test Your Internet Connection: Check your internet connection by opening a new browser tab and loading a webpage. If it’s slow or doesn’t load at all, your internet might be the problem.
  • Step 2: Reset Your Internet Connection: Try resetting your modem or router. Unplug it, wait for a few seconds, then plug it back in. Allow it a few minutes to re-establish the internet connection.
  • Step 3: Connect to a Different Network: If possible, connect to a different network. If you’re using Wi-Fi, consider switching to a wired connection for better stability.
  • Step 4: Contact Your Internet Service Provider (ISP): If the problem persists, it may be a larger issue with your internet service. Contact your ISP for assistance.
  • Step 5: Try Streaming Again on VLC: Once your internet connection is stable, try streaming the YouTube video on VLC again.

Improving your internet connectivity can not only resolve the ‘VLC your input can’t be opened’ error, but it can also enhance your overall browsing and streaming experience.

Fix 4: Alter VLC Network Caching Value

Sometimes, the issue might be with VLC’s network caching value. You can adjust this to improve video buffering. Follow these steps:

  • Step 1: Launch VLC Media Player: Open your VLC Media Player by locating the icon on your desktop or taskbar and clicking on it.
  • Step 2: Access Preferences: Once you’ve opened VLC Media Player, navigate to the ‘Tools’ menu on the top bar. From the drop-down menu, select ‘Preferences.’
  • Step 3: Change to Advanced Preferences: In the Preferences window, you’ll see an option ‘Show settings’ at the bottom left. Select ‘All’ under this option for advanced preferences.
  • Step 4: Navigate to Input / Codecs: On the left side of the Preferences window, you’ll see a list of settings. Scroll down and find ‘Input / Codecs.’ Click on it.
  • Step 5: Change Network Caching Value: Under the ‘Input / Codecs’ settings, locate ‘Network caching (ms)’ in the ‘Advanced’ section. Change the value in this field to 3000 ms.
  • Step 6: Save Settings: Once you’ve changed the network caching value, remember to click on the ‘Save’ button at the bottom right of the Preferences window.
  • Step 7: Restart VLC Media Player: Close VLC Media Player and reopen it to ensure that the changes have taken effect. Now, try to stream the YouTube video again.

By adjusting the network caching value, you can enhance VLC’s buffering performance, potentially resolving the ‘your input can’t be opened’ error and enjoying smoother video streaming.

Fix 5: Use a YouTube Video Downloader

If the issue persists even after trying the previous solutions, you might consider using a YouTube Video Downloader as an alternative solution. This will allow you to download the video and watch it offline. Here’s how:

  • Step 1: Choose a Reliable YouTube Video Downloader: There are numerous YouTube Video Downloaders available online, both as websites and software applications. Choose one that is reliable, user-friendly, and safe.
  • Step 2: Copy the YouTube URL: Navigate to the YouTube video you want to watch. Copy its URL from the address bar at the top of your browser window.
  • Step 3: Paste the URL into the Downloader: Open the YouTube Video Downloader you’ve chosen. You’ll see a field where you can paste the copied URL.
  • Step 4: Select Quality and Format: Many downloaders offer options to choose the video quality and format. Choose the one that suits your preferences.
  • Step 5: Download the Video: Click on the ‘Download’ or ‘Start’ button, depending on the downloader’s interface. The video will start downloading.
  • Step 6: Watch the Video on VLC Media Player: After the download is complete, you can open the video file using your VLC Media Player, bypassing any need to stream and thus eliminating the ‘your input can’t be opened’ error.

While it’s an alternative solution, using a YouTube Video Downloader can ensure you’re able to enjoy your videos, even if VLC struggles to stream them.

Fix 6: Reinstall VLC Media Player

In some instances, the issue could be deeply rooted in the software itself. If all else fails, you might consider reinstalling VLC Media Player. Here’s the step-by-step guide:

  • Step 1: Uninstall VLC Media Player: Go to your computer’s Control Panel. Under ‘Programs,’ select ‘Uninstall a program.’ Find VLC Media Player in the list of installed programs, click on it, and then click ‘Uninstall.’ Follow the prompts to complete the uninstallation.
  • Step 2: Restart Your Computer: Once the uninstallation process is complete, restart your computer. This ensures any residual files from the old installation are cleared out.
  • Step 3: Download the Latest Version of VLC Media Player: Open your web browser and navigate to the official VLC website. Download the latest version of VLC Media Player. Make sure you’re downloading from the official site to avoid any security risks.
  • Step 4: Install VLC Media Player: Open the downloaded VLC setup file and follow the instructions to install the program.
  • Step 5: Try Streaming the YouTube Video Again: After you’ve successfully reinstalled VLC Media Player, try streaming the YouTube video again.
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Reinstalling VLC Media Player is a more drastic step, but it can help you resolve persistent issues like the ‘your input can’t be opened’ error. You’ll also benefit from a clean, updated version of the media player, potentially enhancing your video streaming experience.

Fix 7: Disable VLC’s Hardware-accelerated Decoding

In some cases, the ‘VLC your input can’t be opened’ error might be due to issues with VLC’s hardware-accelerated decoding. Disabling this feature can often help resolve the problem. Follow these steps:

  • Step 1: Open VLC Media Player: Start by launching your VLC Media Player. You can do this by clicking on the VLC icon located either on your desktop or your taskbar.
  • Step 2: Access Preferences: In VLC Media Player, navigate to the ‘Tools’ menu on the top bar. From the drop-down menu that appears, select ‘Preferences.’
  • Step 3: Navigate to Input / Codecs: In the Preferences window, on the left-hand side, find the ‘Input / Codecs’ option and click on it.
  • Step 4: Disable Hardware-accelerated Decoding: In the ‘Input / Codecs’ settings, locate the ‘Hardware-accelerated decoding’ option. Change the option from ‘Automatic’ or ‘Enabled’ to ‘Disable.’
  • Step 5: Save Changes and Restart VLC: After disabling the hardware-accelerated decoding, make sure to click on the ‘Save’ button at the bottom of the Preferences window. Close VLC Media Player and reopen it to make sure that the changes take effect.
  • Step 6: Try Streaming the YouTube Video Again: Now that you’ve disabled hardware-accelerated decoding, try streaming your YouTube video again.

Disabling hardware-accelerated decoding can help VLC better handle video streaming, reducing the likelihood of the ‘your input can’t be opened’ error and improving your overall video streaming experience.

Fix 8: Adjust Firewall Settings

Sometimes, the ‘VLC your input can’t be opened’ error may be due to your computer’s firewall settings. To resolve this issue, you may need to allow VLC through your firewall. Here’s how:

  • Step 1: Open Control Panel: Begin by accessing your computer’s Control Panel. You can do this by typing ‘Control Panel’ into your computer’s search bar and selecting it from the list of results.
  • Step 2: Navigate to Windows Defender Firewall: In the Control Panel, locate and click on ‘System and Security.’ In the menu that appears, click on ‘Windows Defender Firewall.’
  • Step 3: Adjust Firewall Settings: On the left side of the Windows Defender Firewall window, you’ll find an option labeled ‘Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall.’ Click on this option.
  • Step 4: Locate VLC Media Player: In the list of allowed apps and features, find VLC Media Player. If it isn’t in the list, you may need to add it.
  • Step 5: Allow VLC Through the Firewall: Next to VLC Media Player, ensure the boxes under ‘Private’ and ‘Public’ are both checked. This will allow VLC to operate freely, even when your firewall is active.
  • Step 6: Save Changes: After making these changes, click ‘OK’ to save them.
  • Step 7: Try Streaming the YouTube Video Again: With VLC now allowed through your firewall, try streaming the YouTube video again to see if the issue is resolved.

By adjusting your firewall settings, you can ensure that VLC Media Player operates without any interruptions, thereby reducing the occurrence of errors like ‘your input can’t be opened.’

Fix 9: Clear VLC Media Player’s Cache and Preferences

Sometimes, clearing VLC Media Player’s cache and preferences can help resolve the ‘your input can’t be opened’ error. Follow these steps to do this:

  • Step 1: Close VLC Media Player: Ensure VLC Media Player is closed. This is necessary to prevent any conflicts while clearing the cache and preferences.
  • Step 2: Navigate to the VLC Cache Directory: Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box. Type ‘%APPDATA%\vlc’ and hit Enter. This will open the VLC cache directory.
  • Step 3: Delete Cache Files: Once you’ve opened the cache directory, you’ll see files related to VLC. Select all these files and delete them.
  • Step 4: Restart Your Computer: After you’ve cleared the cache, restart your computer. This ensures that all changes have taken effect.
  • Step 5: Open VLC Media Player: Upon restarting, open VLC Media Player. You may notice that VLC has reverted to its default settings, as all the preferences were cleared along with the cache.
  • Step 6: Try Streaming the YouTube Video Again: Now that you’ve cleared the cache and preferences, try streaming your YouTube video again to see if the issue persists.
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Clearing VLC Media Player’s cache and preferences can help eliminate any settings that might have been causing the ‘your input can’t be opened’ error, restoring your VLC streaming experience to its original state.

Prevention Tips: Avoiding the ‘VLC Your Input Can’t Be Opened’ Error

Preventing issues is always better than dealing with them. Here are some practical tips to avoid encountering the ‘VLC your input can’t be opened’ error:

  • Maintain a Stable Internet Connection: Ensure you have a stable internet connection when streaming videos on VLC. Consider using a wired connection for more stability.
  • Keep VLC Media Player Updated: Regularly check for and install any updates to VLC Media Player. Updates often come with bug fixes that can prevent such issues.
  • Use Valid and Correct URLs: When streaming from a URL, make sure it’s correct and valid. Wrong URLs will lead to errors.
  • Monitor Your Firewall Settings: Ensure your firewall settings aren’t blocking VLC from accessing the internet. You may need to allow VLC through your firewall.
  • Regular System Check: Regularly update and check your computer’s operating system. This keeps your system optimized and less prone to errors.
  • Avoid Overloading VLC: Try not to overload VLC with too many tasks simultaneously. This could lead to performance issues and errors.

Remember, prevention is the key. With these tips, you can enjoy a smooth, uninterrupted VLC streaming experience.

Conclusion

Dealing with the ‘VLC your input can’t be opened’ error when streaming YouTube videos can be frustrating. But worry not! With these effective fixes, you can get back to enjoying your favorite videos without any interruptions. Each of these solutions targets a potential cause, from checking your internet connection to tweaking VLC’s network settings. Remember, the process of elimination can be your best approach. Try each fix until you find the one that works for you. Remember, technology may stumble, but there’s always a solution around the corner! Happy streaming!

FAQs

What does the ‘VLC your input can’t be opened’ error mean?

It means VLC is having trouble accessing or processing the video source, often due to network or software issues.

Can a poor internet connection cause this error?

Yes, a weak or unstable internet connection can cause the ‘VLC your input can’t be opened’ error.

How can I fix this error if my internet connection is fine?

There are several other solutions: verifying the video URL, adjusting VLC settings, or even reinstalling VLC can help.

What does adjusting the network caching value do?

This increases the buffer time for your video, potentially helping with streaming issues.

Why should I consider disabling hardware-accelerated decoding?

Sometimes, hardware-accelerated decoding can cause issues with VLC’s video processing, disabling it can often resolve these.

What if none of the suggested fixes work?

You could use a YouTube Video Downloader as a last resort. This allows you to download and watch videos offline.

Is it safe to use a YouTube Video Downloader?

Yes, as long as you use a reliable, safe downloader. It’s always good to read reviews and user feedback first.

How often should I clear VLC’s cache and preferences?

Only clear VLC’s cache and preferences if you’re experiencing issues. It’s not something to do regularly.

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