When you encounter "You Are Not Authorized to View This Content," first check that you're logged in with the correct credentials and have an active subscription. Clear your browser's cache and cookies, then try logging out and back in to refresh your authentication. Verify your internet connection is stable and meets ESPN's minimum speed requirements. If using a VPN, ascertain it's not blocking access or switch to a different server location. For region-restricted content, confirm your subscription includes access to that specific programming. If issues persist, contact ESPN's customer support at 800-919-3776. Additional troubleshooting steps can help resolve more complex authorization problems.
Quick Guide
- Sign out of your account completely, clear browser cache and cookies, then sign back in to refresh authentication credentials.
- Verify your subscription status is active and current in your account settings to ensure proper access rights.
- Check if your region or location settings match the content's availability, as geographic restrictions may block access.
- Update your app or browser to the latest version, as outdated software can trigger unauthorized access messages.
- Contact ESPN support at 800-919-3776 if issues persist, providing your subscriber ID for faster resolution.
Common Causes of Authorization Errors

Authorization errors can disrupt your access to content and services across various platforms.
The most frequent causes include using incorrect login credentials, expired access tokens, or mismatched authentication protocols.
You'll also encounter issues when your account lacks necessary permissions, scopes don't match configured settings, or your redirect URIs are improperly set up in the OAuth 2.0 client. Regular review of your account's permission settings is essential for maintaining proper authorization access.
Check Your Network Settings
A reliable network connection is vital for accessing content properly, so you'll want to verify your internet speed meets the minimum requirements for your streaming or download needs.
Your router's configuration plays a significant role in content delivery, which means you should check its settings for any restrictions or bandwidth limitations that might affect your access. Additionally, a VPN service can help enhance your streaming experience by providing faster connections and bypassing content restrictions.
Starting with basic troubleshooting steps, rebooting both your router and modem can often resolve connectivity problems that prevent content access.
If you're experiencing slow speeds or connection drops, you'll need to confirm your router's placement, channel settings, and whether it needs a firmware update to improve performance.
Network Stability Requirements
Maintaining stable network connectivity forms the foundation for reliable content access.
You'll need to guarantee your network meets key stability requirements: minimal downtime through regular maintenance, low latency below 1ms for real-time applications, ability to handle varying traffic loads using QoS policies, and consistent performance without degradation. Regular stress testing scenarios help identify potential breaking points and performance limits before they impact operations.
Use network monitoring tools to track these metrics and optimize accordingly.
Internet Speed Impact
Network speeds can make or break your content access experience, with several key factors influencing your connection quality.
Your Wi-Fi signal strength diminishes with distance and physical obstacles, while interference from other devices can slow your connection. For optimal signal distribution, consider placing your router in a central elevated location.
Check for congestion from multiple connected devices, and consider using QoS settings to prioritize bandwidth for important activities like streaming or downloading content.
Router Configuration Steps
Once you've confirmed your internet speed isn't the culprit, proper router configuration becomes your next step toward resolving content access issues.
Start by accessing your router's admin interface through your web browser using the default IP address (usually 192.168.1.1).
Check your network settings, particularly your DNS configuration, and make certain you're using your ISP's recommended settings or reliable public DNS servers. For enhanced security, ensure your router has WPA3 security protocol activated.
Use a VPN Service

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) effectively solves most content access problems by masking your real location and routing your internet connection through servers in different countries. Choosing a VPN with strong encryption standards ensures that your data remains secure while you stream. Choose reliable providers like NordVPN, ExpressVPN, or Surfshark that work well with major streaming platforms. These services typically include no-logs policies to protect your privacy while streaming. They'll help you bypass geographic restrictions while offering fast speeds, multiple server locations, and strong security features for your streaming needs.
Sign Up for ESPN
While VPNs help bypass regional restrictions, signing up for ESPN Plus gives you direct, legitimate access to premium sports content.
Visit ESPN Plus's homepage and click "Sign Up Now." Create an account or log in with existing ESPN or Facebook credentials.
Enter your payment details, choosing between credit card or PayPal, then select your preferred subscription plan – monthly ($10.99) or annual ($109.99). After completing your sign-up, you'll receive a success page confirmation before you can start watching content.
Clear Browser Data

Due to persistent website data and cached files, you may experience content access issues with streaming platforms.
Regularly clearing your data is essential for optimal device performance and helps maintain security while browsing online.
To resolve this, clear your browser data.
In Chrome, click the Tools menu and select History, then Clear Browsing Data.
For Firefox, access Privacy & Security settings.
Safari users should proceed to Privacy preferences.
In Microsoft Edge, press Ctrl + Shift + Delete.
Select "All Time" and clear cookies and cached files.
Refresh Account Authentication
Persistent content access issues often stem from expired authentication tokens, requiring you to refresh your account credentials.
Try logging out of your account completely and signing back in to generate new access tokens.
If that doesn't work, you'll need to clear your browser's cache and verify your device's time settings are correct to prevent authentication mismatches. When access is restored, your account will utilize continuous session access to help prevent future interruptions.
Contact ESPN Customer Support

If you're experiencing content access issues, you can reach ESPN's customer support team through their 24/7 live chat feature by clicking the chat icon in the bottom right corner of the ESPN+ website.
For phone support, you can call (800) 727-1800 any day of the week, with shorter wait times typically occurring on Thursdays.
When contacting support through either method, you'll need your account details ready, including your subscriber ID or email address, to help resolve your content access problems quickly. You may experience 5 to 10 minutes of hold time when calling, so having your information prepared can help streamline the support process.
Live Chat Support Options
When you need real-time assistance with ESPN content access, the platform's live chat support offers convenient help across multiple channels.
You'll find chat support through the ESPN app by tapping "Settings," then "ESPN+ Support," and "Text Us."
On the website, simply click the chat icon in the lower right corner.
Live chat is available seven days a week across mobile and desktop platforms.
Customer support representatives provide immediate assistance through live chat to quickly resolve your access issues.
Phone Support Hours
ESPN provides 24/7 phone support through multiple contact numbers, with the main customer service line at 800-919-3776 being the most frequently used option.
You'll typically wait between 5 to 10 minutes on hold, with shorter wait times on Thursdays and longer ones on Saturdays.
For ESPN+ specific issues, you can call their dedicated line at 800-727-1800. When calling, having your account details ready will help customer service representatives assist you more efficiently.
Wrapping Up
When you can't access restricted content, don't give up – you've got several troubleshooting options. Try checking your network connection, using a VPN, or signing up for the required service. If you're already a subscriber, clear your browser data and refresh your login credentials. Still stuck? Contact customer support directly – they'll help resolve your specific authorization issues and get you back to viewing your content.