What is Widevinecdm.dll & Should You Delete It?

You’ll need this DLL file to watch quality videos

4 min. read

Updated onApril 2, 2024

updated onApril 2, 2024

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Key notes

Widevine CDM (Content Decryption Module) is a Dynamic Link Library file. It is a digital rights management (DRM) application that is used toprotect content on the Windows operating system.

This application works by encrypting and decrypting audio and video files to prevent unauthorized duplication or sharing of content. We examine what this file means to your PC and whether you need it.

What is Widevine, and do I need it?

Widevine protects and streams digital content, including videos and music, over the web. Since it is used to stream protected content like movies and TV shows in the browser, it’s not required for content you download or store locally on your device.

It licenses the ability to use its DRM technology. TheChrome browser, for example, uses Widevine to play videos in an HTML5 player, and when not enabled or outdated, you may experienceerror A19 on Stan.

TheHTML5player can only play encrypted media – in this case, DRM-encoded content. So, do you need it? Most DLL files are present in your computer for a purpose. Some are essential, while others are not so much. For widevinecdm.dll, it serves the following benefits:

It’s important to know that the file isn’t malware or spyware. As a legitimate Windows process, it does not threaten your computer. If you’re having problems with this file, you may need to update your Chrome version or uninstall and reinstall it completely.

However, if you are not using the Widevine DRM software or suspect it may be a trojan, you may want to remove this file from your PC tofree disk spaceand secure your system.

How do I disable the Widevinecdm.dll?

1. Run DISM and SFC scans

Alternatively, you can make this process much simpler by using adedicated repair tool.

2. Scan for viruses

3. Perform a System Restore

Is Google Widevinecdm.dll safe?

Google Widevine CDM is a trusted Digital Rights Management (DRM) software. It’s an open-source project that allows developers to integrate DRM into their applications.

So, Yes. It’s safe to install Google Widevinecdm.dll on your computer. The program is not classified as apotentially unwanted application (PUA), meaning it doesn’t pose any security risks.

It’s not uncommon for some people to have concerns about installing this software on their computers. It’s a valid concern because of its connections with DRM protections for copyrighted material and its possible impact on performance or battery life.

Another issue is that this software may be used as a Trojan horse or malware. It can be installed on your computer without your permission or knowledge of its presence on the system.

If you want to keep your PC free of these files, we recommend using ananti-spyware removal tool.

Now that you know Widevine is entirely safe, your next question is probably:How do I enable Google Widevine CDM? The good news is that it comes automatically embedded in your browser.

The only thing you might have to do is update your browser to the latest version to ensure you’re not using an obsolete version.

There you have it. You now know what Widevinecdm.dll does and its importance on your PC. Unless stated otherwise, or you don’t have apps depending on it, you should disable it. See also what to do if you run into aspeedtreert.dll file.

In the comment section below, let us know your good and bad encounters with Widevinecdm.dll.

What is Widevinecdm.dll & Should You Delete It?#

How do I disable the Widevinecdm.dll?#

1. Run DISM and SFC scans#

2. Scan for viruses#

3. Perform a System Restore#

Is Google Widevinecdm.dll safe?#