There are thousands of videos to watch on YouTube with more being uploaded every day. However, many users are reporting YouTube error 503 recently. It comes with the message, “There was a problem with network [503].”
The error 503 indicates that there is an issue with the Youtube server. It cannot handle the request to load the videos due to reasons like overloading, server maintenance, corrupted cache, or a connection timeout. Users across devices experience this problem including those who are using Youtube on the web (Windows and Mac) and the mobile app on Android and iPhone (iOS).
How Do I Fix Server Error 503 on YouTube?
If you are experiencing the YouTube error 503 right now, there are several ways you can do to help fix the error. Follow each solution below one at a time and check afterward if the error is still there.
Solution #1 – Refresh YouTube
Seeing the error may sometimes be temporary, and a quick refresh can help get it back up and running. Reload the YouTube page where you experience the error. You can also go back to the Home page and try again.
Solution #2 – Power Cycle Your Device
Power cycling your device can refresh your network connection.
- Turn off your device and unplug your modem and router.
- Wait for at least 1 minute.
- Plug back in your modem and router.
- After connecting, turn on your device and relaunch YouTube.
Solution #3 – Check YouTube Server Status
There may be a problem with the YouTube servers. You can check their website or social media profiles to see if there are announcements of server maintenance. If there is, all you have to do is wait for Google to fix the error. Check YouTube from time to time.
Solution #4 – Clear the Cache on Your YouTube App
If you are using the YouTube app on your smartphone, deleting the cache can help unload some files and remove corrupted data.
Via Android
- Navigate to the Settings menu.
- Select Apps or Applications.
- Look for YouTube and tap to open.
- Go to Storage.
- Tap Clear Cache.
- Restart your YouTube app.
Via iOS
To delete the cache, you have to uninstall the YouTube app first by long-pressing the app icon and click the X mark. Now, go to the App Store and download the app again.
Solution #5 – Remove Videos from Your Watch Later List
The error may be due to a long playlist on your Watch Later list. Try to delete a few videos by navigating to the Watch Later list. Tap the three-dotted icon and select Remove watched.
Which of the solutions above work for you? Let us know in the comments below.