MakeMKV's automatic H.264 downloading feature is a convenient tool for users who want to rip their DVDs and Blu-ray discs to digital formats. However, the "Downloading is disabled or failed" error can be frustrating. By following the troubleshooting steps outlined in this article, users should be able to resolve the issue and get back to ripping their discs. If you are still experiencing issues, you may want to consider reaching out to MakeMKV's support team for further assistance.
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
Internet Service Providers (ISPs) worldwide frequently update their automated threat intelligence feeds. Because the fairuse.org domain distributes decryption tools, some ISPs flag it as a malicious or high-risk domain and block it at the DNS or network level. 3. Security Software and Firewall Intervention
Last updated: October 2025. This guide applies to MakeMKV v1.17.x and higher. makemkv automatic hk downloading is disabled or failed upd
To understand the failure, you must first understand the backend process: Automatic HK downloading is disabled or failed.
On Windows, ensure that Windows Defender Firewall has an allowing makemkv.exe to communicate on all networks. Go to Control Panel > System and Security > Windows Defender Firewall > Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall . Click “Change settings” and then “Allow another app” . Browse to makemkv.exe (usually found in C:\Program Files (x86)\MakeMKV\ ) and add it.
: The "Enable internet access" option might be unchecked in the MakeMKV settings under the "General" tab. Immediate Solutions MakeMKV's automatic H
This method bypasses the need to download the official HK file.
If you are seeing the status message Automatic HK downloading is disabled or failed upd in MakeMKV, it means the software cannot connect to the online decryption key database to retrieve the necessary keys for your disc.
Using a VPN (Virtual Private Network) is a popular solution to bypass geoblocking because it can route your traffic through a server in a different country. However, this introduces another layer of potential failure. If you are still experiencing issues, you may
If the settings are correct and the software is updated, the issue might be network-related. MakeMKV needs to "phone home" to get those keys.
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.
Add this line to the bottom: 185.84.108.20 hkdata.crabdance.com Save and close the file. Restart MakeMKV. 4. Manually Download and Replace the Data File