Troubleshooting IDM Limited to 360p Downloads from YouTube
In recent times, many users have encountered a common issue: Internet Download Manager (IDM) appears to restrict YouTube video downloads to only 360p resolution. This limitation can be frustrating, especially when higher-quality video options are desired. If you’re facing similar challenges, you’re not alone, and this guide aims to address the problem comprehensively.
Understanding the Issue
IDM is a popular tool for managing downloads, including videos from platforms like YouTube. However, due to changes in YouTube’s streaming protocols and the way videos are hosted, IDM might sometimes only offer a low-resolution (360p) download option. This behavior can be caused by several factors:
- Changes in YouTube’s video streaming infrastructure, especially with the increased use of DASH (Dynamic Adaptive Streaming over HTTP).
- Limitations in IDM’s integration with YouTube’s current delivery methods.
- Disabled or outdated IDM extension in your browser.
- Restrictions set by YouTube on direct downloading of higher-resolution videos.
Common Causes and Solutions
1. Ensure IDM Browser Integration is Up-to-Date
First, verify that your IDM is updated to the latest version. An outdated IDM might not properly detect the available download options.
Steps:
- Open IDM and go to ‘Help’ > ‘Check for updates.’
- If an update is available, install it.
- Ensure that the IDM browser extension is enabled and correctly integrated with your browser.
2. Use the Correct Download Method
IDM often works best when you use the ‘Add URL’ feature. Instead of relying solely on the browser’s download prompts, copy the YouTube video URL and add it directly to IDM. Sometimes, this allows IDM to present all available video resolutions.
Steps:
- Copy the YouTube video link.
- Open IDM and click ‘Add URL.’
- Paste the link and see if multiple resolutions are available.
3. Verify YouTube Video Quality Settings
Make sure the video itself is available in higher resolutions. Sometimes, videos are uploaded only in lower resolutions, or the higher-quality streams are temporarily unavailable.
Steps:
- Play the video on YouTube.
- Check available quality options in the YouTube player settings.
- If higher resolutions are available on the platform, attempting to download via IDM should reflect that.
4. Enable and Configure YouTube Video Downloading in IDM
IDM includes a feature to detect videos on pages
Share this content:
