Error Code 224003 on Windows 10/11

Although not as prevalent as other Windows 10/11 errors, the error code 224003 has been experienced by many users while playing videos on web browsers. Given the numerous factors that can contribute to this error, it is essential to understand how to diagnose the underlying issue for effective resolution.

In this post, we will explain why the error message “Cannot Play Video: Error Code 224003” surfaces, what causes it, and how to fix it.

About Error Code 224003

The error code 224003 is an issue that appears while playing videos on browsers like Chrome, Safari, or Firefox. When this occurs, the video content will not load and may be blocked.

Some of the most common reasons why the error code 224003 appears are:

• system connectivity issues
• some processes may be blocking your video
• browser in-built settings are blocking the video
• add-ons and third-party extensions
• antivirus applications are preventing the video to load
• outdated browser and video player version
• malware entities have infected your system

How to Fix Error Code 224003 on Windows 10/11

Though the error 224003 may surface on all web browsers, Google Chrome users are known to be the most affected. If you are also a Google Chrome user, follow the recommended fixes we have listed below.

Fix #1: Check your network connection

Before taking any drastic measures, check if you are connected to the internet. Make sure you have a stable connection. Go to Network Settings to diagnose this problem. You may also want to double-check if the website you are accessing is down for maintenance.

If you are connected to the internet via LAN, check if the cable is properly connected to the router and your PC. Be sure the connection is not loose.

Fix #2: Disable any browser extensions and add-ons

It is believed that some browser extensions and add-ons, specifically the ad blockers, could trigger the 224003 error to appear. The website may have detected the presence of an extension or an ad blocker on your browser, hence blocking the video for good.

To fix this, go to the three-dotted menu on Chrome to open Settings. Navigate to Extensions and check all the add-ons and extensions installed. Disable any extensions you don’t want to use on Google Chrome.

Fix #3: Disable Hardware Acceleration on your browser

Google Chrome has this Hardware Acceleration feature that is designed to redistribute the processes associated with the GPU. While it’s a great feature as it speeds up your browsing experience, it sometimes causes important processes to stop. That includes video playback.

So, to fix the 224003 error, disable this Chrome feature. To do so, open Google Chrome, navigate to Settings, then click Advanced. Here, click System and disable the Hardware Acceleration feature. Next, restart your browser and check if the error persists.

Fix #4: Update Flash Player

You may already know this – most videos need Flash Player to load on browsers. If it is outdated or disabled, then the 224003 error may occur.

To fix this, go to Flash Player’s official website and install the latest update for Chrome. That’s it!

If you want to customize how to use Flash Player’s components on Chrome, open Chrome Settings > Content > Flash and check if you are not blocking it from running on your browser.

Fix #5: Clear Chrome’s browsing data and cache

Sometimes, your browser collects plenty of browsing data and cache. As a result, you encounter unwanted issues like the error 224003. Fortunately, Google has made it easy for us to reset browsing data. Go to Settings > Advanced, and then click Clear Browsing History.

Alternatively, you can open Google Chrome and press the CTRL + Shift + Delete keys at the same time. This will launch an interface that allows you to select what data you want to delete. We suggest deleting your browser’s cache, cookies, and any hosted app data. After that, relaunch Chrome.

Fix #6: Install any pending Google Chrome update

You may also want to make sure you are not running an outdated Chrome version. An old browser version may be prone to threats and risks. It’s also more likely to trigger error codes to appear.

To update Google Chrome, launch it and go to Settings. Navigate to the Help section and select About Google Chrome. Check if there is a new version available. If there is, install it and relaunch Chrome afterwards.

Fix #7: Remove any threats and malware entities

If your system is infected with malware entities, there is a chance that they will block videos from playing on your browser; hence the error code 224003.

To prevent this from happening, make sure your PC is free of threats. Run a regular virus scan using a trustworthy antivirus software program. A reliable tool will take care of the threats for you, so you can focus on more important things.

You may also want to ensure your PC is free of junk and unnecessary files. For this, you can use a PC repair tool of your choice to scan your system for these unwanted files.

How to Avoid the 224003 Error Code

If you wish to avoid the 224003 error code in the future, here’s what you should do:

• Do not alter your browser’s settings too much as it may affect the way it loads content.
• Visit secure websites and think before you click.
• Avoid installing unnecessary plugins and extensions as it may affect your browsing experience.
• Make sure your browser is up to date.
• In the event that your browser crashes, restart it properly.
• If you cannot play a video, consider downloading it and play it offline.

Wrapping Up

The error code 224003 may not cause serious damage to your PC. However, it can significantly affect your browsing experience. So, if ever you come across this error code, have it fixed right away using our recommended fixes and take appropriate measures to avoid it in the future.

What other video-related error codes have you encountered before? Let us know how you dealt with it in the comments!