Hulu Error Playback Buffer Watchdog Reached? Here’s How to Fix

Getting – “Hulu error playback buffer watchdog reached” error message on your TV and you’re looking for a quick way to resolve the problem?

Don’t get discouraged and keep reading because you just came across the best post about your problem.

Here we will uncover everything related to Hulu playback errors and provide you with proven to work methods shared by people that successfully resolve the same issue as yours.

Most of the Hulu playback errors are related to a bad internet connection or internal software issue.

To resolve Hulu Error Playback Buffer issue, you can try changing DNS settings, device power cycle, and run a speed test to determine poor internet failures.

On the other hand, the issue could be coming from Hulu servers that cannot provide your device with video stream data which could only be fixed by the manufacturers.

Either way, we’re going to find out, but before we start identifying the problem, let’s take a look at all the reasons that might be causing your issue.

Why Hulu Playback Buffer Watchdog Reached Error?

This issue would appear if there are internal server issues at your manufacturer’s headquarters.

However, you would be informed of the maintenance at least two days before the event takes place so if you haven’t been notified you can call Hulu customer services right away to justify this theory.

The other perspective of the issue stands within your internet network. If you have too many connections, you won’t have enough bandwidth to launch the stream and keep it running without buffering.

Another audible cause for this issue could also be an incorrect DNS address. Many users reported that after slightly changing it, the playback buffer error disappeared.

However, the most common reason remains poor network, so this is what we’re focusing on, so let’s get started.

How To Fix Hulu Error Code Playback Buffer Watchdog Reached?

Many users reported that this error is quite occasional. However, this is in your favor due to the large number of troubleshooting methods and handy workarounds we have found for you.

We will start with the easiest methods first and build our way up to the more complex solutions, in case the issue is still there.

In that regard, don’t forget to test your Hulu playback for any errors after you’re done with a method.

Method #1 Improve Internet Connection

One of the main things we are going to review in this post is poor internet quality.

This way instead of only discussing the specialties and quality of your network, we have decided to add some handy tips that will boost your network’s performance.

Power Cycle & Restart Router

We figured you would be occasionally recommended to restart your streaming equipment and router whenever getting in touch with your internet providers.

This is exactly why we have added another handy workaround that will completely reboot your network.

Here are the steps to power cycle your network configuration and router.

1. Turn off and unplug your router from the power source.
2. Wait for at least 10 minutes.
3. Plug it into the power source.
4. Check if you have an improvement in network speed.

Important: To measure your progress, we suggest first testing your network at any online internet speed service.

This way you will be able to determine whether those methods help and track the improvement of your internet.

Use Wired Connection

Another handy way of increasing your network’s functionality is to wire up your TV and the router.

This action will be performed using an Ethernet cable that you can purchase from any electronics store around your local area.

After you provide an Ethernet cable for your configuration, simply plug it into the router and then into the TV.

From now on your TV or streaming device won’t use Wi-Fi but benefit from direct router internet. This way you can exclude the Wi-Fi as a possible cause for a slow network and possibly fix your Hulu playback error.

Relocate Router

If you weren’t able to wire up your configuration, you can try relocating your router as another workaround.

Keep in mind that there are two types of networks and their signals travel differently throughout objects and walls, so make sure to pay attention.

There are two types of general networks – 2.4GHz ones and 5GHz ones. The 2.4GHz ones which transmit weaker signals can travel through up to 4 walls, so don’t worry if your router is downstairs or two rooms away from the one your TV is in.

But if your network is 5GHz, make sure to locate it in the same room as your TV. This way you will benefit from boosted connection speed and no Wi-Fi delay at the same time.

Pro Tip: We recommend using the 2.4Ghz Wi-Fi as it is completely enough to stream even 4K videos and its signal strength is stronger.

Method #2 Power Cycle Streaming Device

As you had already restarted your network components, now you should do the same thing but with your streaming devices.

The power cycle process is well-known to have the best result with Hulu error playback buffer watchdog reached, so make sure to execute the process carefully.

Here is a complete guide on how to perform a power cycle on your TV & streaming device:

1. Turn off your TV & streaming device.
2. Unplug the devices from the power sources.
3. Wait for at least 3-5 minutes for the best results.
4. Pug the power cable back into the power source.
5. See if the issue still persists.

If the power cycle was able to fix the buffering in Hulu, we have to inform you that the issue might be hardware-related.

In such situations, it is best to seek further assistance from someone specialized in order to resolve your problem.

Note: We can’t exclude the possibility of an accidental (temporary) glitch that was resolved by performing a power cycle and it might never appear again.

Method #3 Change DNS Address

As you are probably aware, some routers have a default feature that will automatically prioritize incoming traffic from any specific device.

To get this feature working in your favor, you would have to change the DNS address to prioritize traffic incoming from Hulu.

You will be able to configure DNS settings by accessing your Wi-Fi router, but make sure to check online for the exact DNS address for your router.

There are a lot of guides online specialized for your router model and OS so make sure to take a look and try changing your DNS.

Method #4 Check For Updates

Sometimes when Hulu isn’t up to date, you would occasionally experience buffering and longer load time when playing a specific stream. All of this could be due to the fact that you are using an older version of the app.

Simply go to your respective app store and search up for Hulu. When you click on the corresponding icon you will be able to check if there are any newer updates available.

If there is a firmware update you can download, make sure to apply it as soon as possible.

Hulu Error Code Buffer Playback Watchdog Reached Error Still There…

If nothing has helped so far, you might have to seek further assistance from a technician or the Hulu manufacturers.

At this point, our recommendation is to scroll up and check if you have missed something that could have been essential.

If you are confident that the issue is hardware-related, you would have to call a technician to take a look.

Otherwise, mail Hulu for the condition of your app and make sure to include everything you have tried so far to avoid repeating troubleshooting recommendations.

Read Next: Why Does Hulu Keep Skipping Episodes?

Bottom Line

After getting acknowledged on how to deal with Hulu error playback buffer watchdog reached, you should be fully capable of resolving the issue on your own.

If you turn out to be unsuccessful, at least you will know what to do next and you’re one step closer to resolving the problem.

For more content on Hulu, make sure to visit our technical blog that specializes in resolving issues just like yours!