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Troubleshooting

Troubleshooting common streaming issues

Experiencing buffering, errors, or other problems while streaming on Crave? These technical troubleshooting tips will help you resolve common issues and get back to enjoying your favourite shows and movies seamlessly.

1. Verify Device Compatibility

To ensure the best streaming experience, confirm your device is compatible with Crave. A comprehensive list of supported devices—including smart TVs, mobile devices, tablets, and gaming consoles—is available on our Supported Devices page. Checking this list first can help resolve many playback issues.

2. Check Your Network Connection

If Crave isn’t loading or is buffering frequently, network-related issues are often the cause. Try these steps:

  • Avoid Public Wi-Fi: Public networks can be unstable and slow, interfering with smooth Crave streaming. 
  • Disable VPN: Turn off any Virtual Private Network (VPN) services. VPNs can sometimes prevent Crave from verifying your valid Canadian location, leading to access problems. 
  • Disable Ad Blocker: Ensure your ad blocker is turned off. Some ad blockers may mistakenly block essential content playback for streaming services like Crave. 

3. Update Your Crave App, Browser, and Software

Keeping your software up-to-date is crucial for optimal Crave performance.

  • Ensure you have installed the latest versions of the Crave app, your operating system, and your web browser. 
  • For the best experience, confirm that your browser is set to accept cookies. 
  • For Apple users, ensure cross-site tracking is enabled in your browser settings. 

4. Consider Your Physical and Virtual Location

Crave content is geo-restricted and licensed for distribution exclusively within Canada.

  • Physical Location: You must be physically located in Canada to access Crave. Streaming from outside Canada may result in location errors or an inability to play content. 
  • Virtual Location: As mentioned above, VPNs can sometimes prevent Crave from verifying your valid Canadian location, leading to access problems.