How to Fix Hulu Error Code 406: A Comprehensive Guide

Are you trying to stream your favorite shows on Hulu, only to be greeted by the frustrating error code 406? This error can be quite irritating, but don’t worry – we’re here to help. In this article, we’ll discuss the reasons behind error 406 and provide you with clear, step-by-step solutions to fix the issue. With our expert guidance, you’ll be back to binge-watching in no time!

Must read: Hulu Error Code P-DEV340: Reasons and Fixes

What is Hulu Error Code 406?

Hulu error code 406 is a streaming issue that occurs when there’s a problem with your device, network connection, or the Hulu app itself. This error often manifests as buffering, playback errors, or the inability to access content on Hulu.

Common Causes of Error Code 406

1. Unstable internet connection: An inconsistent or slow internet connection is one of the main reasons for error code 406. Hulu requires a stable connection to stream content seamlessly.
2. Outdated Hulu app: An outdated app version might cause compatibility issues.
3. Corrupted cache and data: Accumulated cache and data may cause the Hulu app to malfunction.
4. Incompatible DNS settings: Incorrect or incompatible DNS settings can also contribute to this error.

How to Fix Hulu Error Code 406?

Fix 1: Check and Improve Your Internet Connection

A weak or unstable internet connection is one of the primary reasons behind Hulu error code 406. Follow these steps to check and improve your connection:

1. Test your internet speed: Use a reliable online speed test tool like Speedtest.net or Fast.com to determine your current internet speed. Ensure that your connection meets Hulu’s minimum requirements (3 Mbps for standard streaming, 8 Mbps for live streams, and 16 Mbps for 4K content).

2. Restart your modem and router: Unplug your modem and router from the power source for at least 30 seconds. This allows them to reset and clear any network congestion. After 30 seconds, plug them back in and wait for them to fully power up before trying Hulu again.

3. Move closer to the router: Position your streaming device closer to your router to improve Wi-Fi signal strength. Walls and other obstructions can weaken the Wi-Fi signal, so try to minimize these barriers for optimal performance.
4. Use an Ethernet cable: If possible, connect your streaming device directly to your router using an Ethernet cable. This can provide a more stable and faster connection compared to Wi-Fi.
5. Contact your internet service provider (ISP): If the above steps do not resolve the issue and your internet speed is consistently below the recommended levels, contact your ISP to discuss possible solutions or upgrading your internet plan.

Remember, a strong and stable internet connection is essential for a smooth streaming experience on Hulu. By following these steps, you can help eliminate error code 406 and enjoy your favorite content without interruption.

Fix 2: Clear Cache and Data for the Hulu App

Accumulated cache and data can cause the Hulu app to malfunction, leading to error code 406. Clearing cache and data can help resolve this issue. Here’s how to do it on different devices:

For Android devices:

1. Open the “Settings” app on your device.
2. Tap on “Apps” or “Apps & notifications.”
3. Find and select “Hulu” from the list of apps.
4. Tap on “Storage” or “Storage & cache.”
5. Select “Clear cache” and then “Clear data” or “Clear storage.” This will remove all temporary files and saved data for the Hulu app.

For iOS devices:

Clearing cache and data on iOS devices requires uninstalling and reinstalling the Hulu app. Here’s how:

1. Locate the Hulu app icon on your device’s home screen.
2. Press and hold the icon until it starts to wiggle.
3. Tap the “X” in the top corner of the icon and confirm the deletion.
4. Visit the App Store and search for “Hulu.”
5. Download and reinstall the Hulu app.

For Roku devices:

1. Press the “Home” button on your Roku remote.
2. Navigate to the Hulu app using the arrow keys.
3. Press the “Star” button on your remote to open the options menu.
4. Select “Remove channel” and confirm the deletion.
5. Restart your Roku device.
6. Reinstall the Hulu app from the Roku Channel Store.

By clearing cache and data, you can resolve potential compatibility issues and ensure the Hulu app runs smoothly.

Fix 3: Change Your DNS Settings

Incorrect or incompatible DNS settings can contribute to Hulu error code 406. Changing your DNS settings to use a public DNS server, like Google’s DNS, can help resolve the issue. Here’s how to change DNS settings on different devices:

For Windows:

1. Open the “Control Panel” and click on “Network and Internet.”
2. Click on “Network and Sharing Center.”
3. Select “Change adapter settings” in the left sidebar.
4. Right-click on your active network connection and choose “Properties.”
5. In the list of items, find “Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)” and click “Properties.”
6. Select “Use the following DNS server addresses” and enter the following values

Fix 4: Update Your Hulu App

An outdated Hulu app can cause compatibility issues and lead to error code 406. Keeping your app up-to-date ensures that you have the latest features and bug fixes. Here’s how to update the Hulu app on different devices:

For Android devices:

1. Open the Google Play Store app on your device.
2. Tap the menu icon (three horizontal lines) in the top-left corner.
3. Select “My apps & games.”
4. Find the Hulu app in the list of pending updates. If an update is available, tap “Update.”

For iOS devices:

1. Open the App Store on your device.
2. Tap on your profile icon in the top-right corner.
3. Scroll down to the “Pending Updates” section.
4. Locate the Hulu app and tap “Update” if available.
5. For Smart TVs, gaming consoles, and streaming devices:
6. Updating the Hulu app on these devices varies depending on the manufacturer and model. Refer to the device’s user manual or manufacturer’s website for specific instructions on updating apps.

Fix 5: Reinstall Hulu

If all else fails, uninstalling and reinstalling the Hulu app can often resolve error code 406. This process removes any corrupted files or settings that might be causing the issue. Here’s how to reinstall Hulu on different devices:

For Android and iOS devices:

1. Locate the Hulu app on your device’s home screen.
2. Press and hold the app icon until a menu appears (Android) or the icon starts to wiggle (iOS).
3. Tap “Uninstall” (Android) or the “X” in the top corner of the icon (iOS), then confirm the deletion.
4. Visit your device’s app store (Google Play Store or Apple App Store), search for “Hulu,” and reinstall the app.
5. For Smart TVs, gaming consoles, and streaming devices:
6. Uninstalling and reinstalling the Hulu app on these devices varies depending on the manufacturer and model. Refer to the device’s user manual or manufacturer’s website for specific instructions on removing and reinstalling apps.

Reinstalling Hulu can help eliminate error code 406 by resetting the app to its default settings and removing any corrupted files.

Fix 6: Disable VPN or Proxy

Using a VPN or proxy service can sometimes cause Hulu error code 406, as they might interfere with the streaming process or be blocked by Hulu. To resolve this issue, disable your VPN or proxy service and try streaming again. Here’s how:

For VPN users:

1. Open your VPN application on your device.
2. Disconnect from the VPN server by clicking “Disconnect” or a similar option.
3. Close the VPN application.
4. Restart the Hulu app and try streaming again.

For proxy users:

1. Open the “Settings” app on your device.
2. Navigate to “Network & Internet” or a similar option.
3. Select “Proxy” or “VPN & proxy.”
4. Disable the proxy by toggling the switch off or selecting “None” as the proxy type.
5. Restart the Hulu app and try streaming again.
6. By disabling your VPN or proxy, you can eliminate potential network conflicts that might be causing error code 406.

Fix 7: Check for Device or Firmware Updates

Outdated device firmware or operating system can cause compatibility issues with the Hulu app, leading to error code 406. Ensuring that your device and firmware are up-to-date can help resolve the issue. Here’s how to check for updates on different devices:

For Android devices:

1. Open the “Settings” app on your device.
2. Scroll down and tap on “System” or “Software update.”
3. Tap on “Check for updates” or a similar option. If an update is available, follow the on-screen instructions to download and install it.

For iOS devices:

1. Open the “Settings” app on your device.
2. Tap on “General.”
3. Select “Software Update.” If an update is available, tap “Download and Install.”
4. For Smart TVs, gaming consoles, and streaming devices:
5. Checking for updates on these devices varies depending on the manufacturer and model. Refer to the device’s user manual or manufacturer’s website for specific instructions on checking and installing updates.

Fix 8: Power Cycle Your Streaming Device

Sometimes, a simple power cycle can resolve temporary issues, like Hulu error code 406, by resetting the device and clearing temporary data. Here’s how to power cycle your streaming device:

1. Turn off your streaming device by pressing the power button or using the remote control.
2. Unplug the device from the power source.
3. Wait for at least 30 seconds to allow any residual power to drain and temporary data to clear.
4. Plug the device back into the power source.
5. Turn on the device and launch the Hulu app to check if the error has been resolved.
6. Power cycling your device can help eliminate temporary glitches or conflicts that might be causing error code 406.

Fix 9: Contact Hulu Support

If you have tried all the above fixes and still face Hulu error code 406, it might be time to contact Hulu Support for assistance. They can help diagnose the issue and provide specific solutions based on your account, device, or location. Here’s how to contact Hulu Support:

1. Visit the Hulu Help Center at help.hulu.com.
2. Click on the “Contact Us” button or scroll down to the “Need More Help?” section.
3. Choose the most relevant topic and subtopic from the dropdown menus.
4. Click on “Chat” or “Phone” to get in touch with a Hulu support representative.
5. By reaching out to Hulu Support, you can receive personalized assistance to resolve error code 406 and get back to enjoying your favorite content.

Conclusion

In conclusion, resolving Hulu error code 406 involves troubleshooting internet connection, updating apps, clearing cache, adjusting DNS settings, and contacting support. By following these steps diligently, you’ll enjoy uninterrupted streaming and a seamless Hulu experience. Happy binge-watching!

FAQs

1. What is Hulu error code 406?

Hulu error code 406 is a streaming issue caused by problems with your device, network connection, or the Hulu app itself.

2. How can I fix Hulu error code 406?

Fixing Hulu error code 406 involves checking your internet connection, updating the Hulu app, clearing cache, adjusting DNS settings, and contacting support if needed.

3. How do I check my internet speed?

Use online tools like Speedtest.net or Fast.com to test your internet speed and ensure it meets Hulu’s minimum requirements.

4. Can an outdated Hulu app cause error code 406?

Yes, outdated Hulu apps can cause compatibility issues, leading to error code 406. Update the app to resolve this issue.

5. Should I clear the cache and data for the Hulu app?

Clearing cache and data can resolve potential issues within the Hulu app, helping eliminate error code 406.

6. Can use a VPN or proxy service cause Hulu error code 406?

Yes, using a VPN or proxy service can interfere with streaming or be blocked by Hulu, causing error code 406.

7. When should I contact Hulu Support for help with error code 406?

If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps and still face error code 406, contact Hulu Support for personalized assistance.