Playback Issues with DRM Content Following Windows 11 Update
If you are experiencing problems with video playback relating to Digital Rights Management (DRM) content, particularly after installing the Windows 11 24H2 September 2025 Patch Tuesday update (KB5065426), the issue is likely not due to your hardware. Microsoft has acknowledged that specific Digital TV and Blu-ray/DVD applications are encountering difficulties in playing protected content after the August 2025 C-release update (KB5064081).
Details of the Problem
This issue primarily affects applications that utilize the Enhanced Video Renderer (EVR), which is equipped with High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection (HDCP) and Digital Rights Management (DRM) for digital audio. Users may experience a range of problems, including:
- Copyright protection errors
- Frequent playback interruptions
- Freezing or black screens
Despite these challenges, it is important to note that streaming services remain unaffected and continue to operate seamlessly.
Scope of the Impact
The extent of this issue appears to be limited, as the playback of physical media has become less common in recent years. However, for individuals who rely on Blu-ray or broadcast television applications, this update has effectively blocked access to content they have legally purchased or licensed.
“Some Digital TV and BluRay/DVD applications might experience problems playing protected content after installing the August 29, 2025 Windows non-security preview update (KB5064081), or later updates. Applications using Enhanced Video Renderer with HDCP enforcement or Digital Rights Management (DRM) for digital audio might experience copyright protection errors, frequent playback interruptions, freezing, or black screens. This issue does not impact streaming services.”
Understanding Enhanced Video Renderer (EVR)
The EVR is a legacy feature in Windows, which has now been largely replaced by the Simple Video Renderer (SVR).It is crucial for managing secure playback by working alongside Microsoft’s Media Foundation and DirectShow pipelines. The EVR ensures that protected video frames are integrity-verified and rendered only through secure Direct3D surfaces, effectively preventing unauthorized duplication. This function is vital for enabling compliance with licensing requirements for Blu-ray, broadcast television, and other DRM-secured media formats.
Current Support and Resources
At this time, Microsoft has not provided any specific workarounds, and users are left with the option of postponing updates until a resolution is implemented. For further information regarding this issue, you can check the official status on Microsoft’s Windows health dashboard here.
For additional insights, updates, and visual resources, visit the source.
Related Articles:
Microsoft Removes Upgrade Block, Allowing More Users to Download Windows 11 24H2
8:43
Microsoft Tests AI Agents and Assistants for Windows 11 Taskbar Integration
5:34
Zorin OS 18: The Windows Alternative Promising Enhanced Performance and Extensive New Features
5:31
Leave a Reply