YouTube streaming issues

If you’re having trouble watching YouTube while connected to Proton VPN, these tips should help you fix the issue

YouTube streaming errors explained

Sign in required

If YouTube asks you to sign in to access their content, it could be because unusual activity was detected on your device (like using a VPN or a less popular browser).

However, we’re increasingly seeing sign-in requirements, even when there’s no obvious cause. So it’s possible that YouTube is moving towards a policy where everyone has to sign in to watch content.

VPN/proxy detected error

This means YouTube has detected you’re using a VPN. This could be because they’ve managed to link your VPN IP address to us.

The error may also be the result of YouTube detecting unusual activity on your end.

Troubleshooting tips

Try a different server

If the content you wish to watch isn’t restricted to specific location, it may be best to connect to a server in a different country.

Don’t use Tor servers

We have received several reports from Proton community members who have had issues accessing YouTube while connected to a Tor server

Still having trouble?

Check out our streaming troubleshooting guide for more help solving streaming issues.