Makemkv Automatic Hk Downloading Is: Disabled Or Failed Upd
On Windows (run as admin):
makemkvcon64.exe --debug=stdout info
Look for lines containing “Downloading HK”.
The “MakeMKV automatic HK downloading is disabled or failed” error is almost always fixable by:
Because AACS key distribution relies on frequent updates, keeping this mechanism functional is essential for ripping recent Blu-ray discs. When automatic download fails permanently, the manual HK method from the MakeMKV forum remains a reliable fallback.
For ongoing issues, the best resource is the MakeMKV Forum → “General” or “Blu-ray” sections, where developers and power users share the latest HK files and troubleshooting advice.
Last updated: 2025 – reflects MakeMKV version 1.17.x and later.
This request appears to relate to a specific error message or status found within MakeMKV, a popular program for ripping Blu-ray and DVD discs.
The message "Automatic HK downloading is disabled or failed" typically refers to the software's ability to access the Hash Key (HK) database. This database is used to fetch disc decryption keys automatically, saving the user from manually locating and entering keys for obscure or new discs.
Here is content explaining the error and how to resolve it.
MakeMKV operates on a beta license system that requires occasional updates. If your version is significantly outdated, certain online features may cease to function correctly.
From reverse engineering and developer notes: makemkv automatic hk downloading is disabled or failed upd
The system uses no authentication—only disc hashes—so it’s lightweight but entirely dependent on the central server’s availability.
MakeMKV is legal to use for creating backups of discs you personally own in most jurisdictions (per the U.S. DMCA exemptions for archival copies). The "HK" system is a circumvention tool for access control. This article assumes you are using the software for lawful backup purposes, not piracy. Always respect copyright laws in your region.
If you're looking to see this feature improved or fixed in future updates, consider the following:
By following these steps, you should either be able to resolve the issue with automatic metadata downloading in MakeMKV or effectively communicate your need for this feature to the developers.
This error occurs when MakeMKV cannot reach its key server to download the Hashed Keys (HK) required to decrypt specific (often 4K UHD) discs . Because the servers are frequently hosted in the Russian Federation
, many modern routers, ISPs, and DNS providers (like Cloudflare) block the connection by default. MakeMKV forums 🛠️ Direct Fixes : Connecting to a
) is the most reliable way to bypass ISP-level or geo-blocks. Switch DNS : Avoid using Cloudflare (1.1.1.1) ; try using Google DNS (8.8.8.8)
or your ISP's default DNS, as Cloudflare sometimes trips up these specific connections. Mobile Hotspot : Temporarily disconnect from your home Wi-Fi and use your phone’s cellular data as a hotspot to download the small key file. Check Settings "Enable internet access" is checked under Preferences MakeMKV forums 📂 Manual Key Update (Workaround)
If automatic downloads continue to fail, you can manually place the required files in your MakeMKV Data Directory Preferences Automatic HK downloading is disabled or failed.
The "Automatic HK downloading is disabled or failed" error in MakeMKV occurs when the software cannot reach the server to download Hash Keys (HK). These keys are essential for decrypting and identifying newer Blu-ray or 4K UHD discs not already in your local database. On Windows (run as admin): makemkvcon64
The failure is usually caused by network-level blocks, as the key servers are located in regions (such as Russia) that many ISPs, firewalls, and DNS services proactively block. Top Solutions to Fix HK Downloading
Use a VPN: Connecting to a VPN is the most reliable way to bypass ISP or regional blocks. Users have reported success with services like ProtonVPN or Norton VPN.
Change Your DNS: Some DNS providers, like Cloudflare (1.1.1.1), may block the key servers. Switching to Google DNS (8.8.8.8 or 8.8.4.4) often resolves the issue.
Check "Enable Internet Access": Ensure the box for "Enable internet access" is checked under the General tab in MakeMKV's preferences.
Modify Host Files (Advanced): You can force a connection by adding the key server IP to your system's hosts file. Users on the MakeMKV forums suggest adding 185.84.108.20 hkdata.fairuse.org to the file located at C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc\hosts.
Manual Key Installation: If automatic downloading continues to fail, you can manually download the sdf.dat.gz file from hkdata.fairuse.org/svq/sdf.dat.gz and place it in your MakeMKV data folder (typically C:\Users\[Username]\.MakeMKV). Troubleshooting Common Causes Description Geo-Blocking
Many routers (like Ubiquiti) or ISPs block traffic to/from Russia, where the keys are hosted. Firewall/Antivirus
Threat protection software often flags the key server as a "malicious" or "unauthorized" connection. Server Downtime
Occasional server outages or maintenance can cause temporary failures that usually resolve within 24 hours.
Are you seeing this error on a specific 4K UHD title or across all of your Blu-ray discs? Automatic HK downloading is disabled or failed. Look for lines containing “Downloading HK”
"Automatic HK downloading is disabled or failed" occurs when the software cannot reach its external servers to download Hash Keys (HK)
. These keys are essential for decrypting newer Blu-ray and 4K Ultra HD (UHD) discs. Why the Download Fails
The primary reason for this failure is that MakeMKV’s data servers (like hkdata.fairuse.org hkdata.crabdance.com ) are frequently hosted in or routed through the Russian Federation . This triggers several common roadblocks:
"Automatic HK downloading is disabled or failed" in MakeMKV occurs when the software cannot reach its decryption key servers to update the "hashed keys" (HK) required for new or UHD discs
. This is frequently caused by network restrictions, geographic IP blocking, or server-side outages. Immediate Troubleshooting Steps Verify Preferences View > Preferences > General and ensure "Allow contacting web server for updates" is checked.
: Many ISPs or routers block the specific servers MakeMKV uses because they are hosted in regions like the Russian Federation. Connecting to a VPN like ProtonVPN often bypasses these blocks. Disable Geo-Blocking : If you use advanced networking gear (like
), check if "Country Blocking" is enabled. Disabling blocks for the Russian Federation has resolved this for many users. Change DNS
: Some configurations, particularly those using Cloudflare DNS, may prevent access to the key servers. Try switching your system DNS to Google DNS (8.8.8.8) or your ISP's default. Manual Workaround (Fixing the "SDF" Error)
If automatic downloads consistently fail, you can manually place the required data file into the MakeMKV data directory: Automatic HK download disabled or failed - www.makemkv.com
Conclusion
MakeMKV's automatic HKEY downloading feature is an essential part of the software's functionality, and issues with it can be frustrating. By following the troubleshooting guides outlined in this article, you should be able to resolve the "MakeMKV automatic HKEY downloading is disabled or failed" error and continue ripping and converting your Blu-ray and DVD discs. If you're still experiencing issues, you may want to contact MakeMKV's support team for further assistance.