What HDCP does
HDCP (High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection) encrypts video on its way along an HDMI cable. Before sending protected content, the source checks that the next device supports HDCP, and that device checks the next, all the way to the screen. Version 2.2 is the one that matters for 4K and HDR: Roku says that to stream 4K or HDR, all devices connected through HDMI to its players must support HDCP 2.2.
What a failure looks like
- An “HDCP” or “unauthorised content” message, or a black screen with the device’s menus still visible,
- 4K and HDR dropping to HD: Roku says that if one device doesn’t support HDCP 2.2, 4K or HDR titles play at a lower resolution, such as 720p or 1080p,
- Picture cutting out when another device in the chain switches on or off.
Common causes
| Cause | Why it breaks the chain |
|---|---|
| HDMI splitter, switch or capture device | It doesn’t support the needed HDCP version, or doesn’t pass the check through |
| AV receiver or soundbar in the video path | Older models support an earlier HDCP version only |
| The wrong HDMI port on the TV | Some TVs support HDCP 2.2 and 4K on certain ports only |
| An old or damaged cable | A poor connection can fail the check, or drop out under 4K bandwidth |
| A device that didn’t wake properly | The check happens when devices connect; a missed handshake fails it |
Fixes, in order
- Restart the chain. Turn off the TV and any receiver or soundbar, unplug the streaming device for 30 seconds, then switch on the TV first and the streaming device last.
- Connect directly. Plug the streaming device straight into the TV, without splitters, switches or extenders. If that fixes it, the removed device was the problem.
- Use the right TV port. Check the TV’s labels or manual for the HDMI ports that support 4K and HDCP 2.2.
- Change the cable. Roku recommends Premium High Speed HDMI cables throughout the chain for 4K.
- Move the receiver out of the video path. If your receiver lacks HDCP 2.2, Roku’s suggested workaround is to connect the streaming player directly to the TV and send audio back to the receiver over ARC or an optical (S/PDIF) cable.
HDCP and IPTV apps
Copy protection is applied by the device and the app, depending on the content. A failed HDCP check usually affects every protected app on the device, not just one IPTV channel. If only one IPTV channel shows a black screen while others and other apps work, the cause is more likely the stream or a codec. See black screen on IPTV and codec not supported.