Automatic Hk Downloading Is Disabled Or Failed Updated | Makemkv

The error "Automatic HK downloading is disabled or failed" occurs when MakeMKV cannot connect to its hash key (HK) servers to download the latest decryption keys required for new discs, particularly 4K UHD titles

. This is often due to network security settings or geographic blocks, as the primary key servers are hosted in MakeMKV forums Potential Causes Geo-Blocking

: Many routers (like Ubiquiti gear) and Internet Service Providers (ISPs) block traffic from the Russian Federation by default for security. MakeMKV forums DNS Filtering makemkv automatic hk downloading is disabled or failed

: Sophisticated DNS setups or security functions (e.g., Cloudflare DNS) may inadvertently block the necessary domains. Firewall/Antivirus

: Local security software may flag the connection to the HK data domains as malicious. Incorrect Settings The error "Automatic HK downloading is disabled or

: Internet access might be manually disabled within the MakeMKV General preferences. MakeMKV forums Recommended Solutions Automatic HK download disabled or failed - www.makemkv.com

Method 3: Update to the Latest Version of MakeMKV

Older versions (pre-1.14.0) have limited key retrieval capabilities. Always use the latest release. Method 3: Update to the Latest Version of

Official site: makemkv.com
Current version (as of 2025): 1.17.x or higher

After updating, restart your computer and try the disc again.

✅ Step 5: Try a Different Network or Use a VPN

Some ISPs or corporate networks block the key server.
Connect via a mobile hotspot or use a VPN to change your IP.

Step 6: Reset MakeMKV Settings

If none of the above steps resolve the issue, try resetting MakeMKV's settings to their default values.
Go to Preferences > Advanced and click on Reset Settings.

Additional Tips and Solutions

If you've tried all the troubleshooting steps and still encounter the error, consider the following:

Contact MakeMKV Support: Reach out to MakeMKV's support team for further assistance. They may be able to provide additional troubleshooting steps or patches to resolve the issue.
Check System Logs: Analyze system logs to identify any errors related to MakeMKV or the H.265 encoder download process.
Alternative Solutions: If MakeMKV is unable to download the H.265 encoder, consider using alternative software tools, such as HandBrake or FFmpeg, which also support H.265 encoding.

Conclusion

1. Check Internet & Permissions

Ensure you’re online.
Temporarily disable firewall/antivirus to test if they’re blocking MakeMKV.
Run MakeMKV as administrator (Windows) or with proper network permissions (macOS/Linux).

2. Update MakeMKV

Install the latest version from makemkv.com.
Newer versions include updated built-in keys and improved download handling.