yt-dlp is an open source tool that allows you to download videos from various video-sharing sites, including YouTube. This guide provides an overview of yt-dlp, explains how to download and install it, and clarifies whether it can download videos from Netflix.
What is yt-dlp?
yt-dlp is an open-source video downloader built on the foundation of YouTube-DL. Like its predecessor, it enables users to download videos from multiple video-sharing platforms.
yt-dlp is a command-line utility written in Python and operates as a standalone program for downloading videos from YouTube and other video-sharing websites.
How to Install yt-dlp
This section provides instructions on how to install yt-dlp:
Prerequisite:
Ensure Python is installed on your system. If it's not, download it from the official Python website before proceeding with yt-dlp installation.
(1) Downloading yt-dlp
Obtain the latest version of yt-dlp from its official website, then unzip the downloaded file.
(2) Installation
Follow these steps to install yt-dlp:
- Open a command prompt or terminal.
- Navigate to the directory where yt-dlp was downloaded.
Enter the following command: pip install yt-dlp.[dev, muxer, qt, torrent, http, downloader, hls, dash, ffmpeg, postprocessor, metadata, hardsub]. This will install yt-dlp and its dependencies.
(3) Installation Verification
To verify yt-dlp installation, run yt-dlp --version to display version information.
With yt-dlp successfully installed, different operating systems may require varying installation methods. Refer to the official website or detailed instructions for specific installation guidance.
For Windows 10, install yt-dlp as follows:
Download yt-dlp.exe from https://github.com/yt-dlp/yt-dlp/releases
Save yt-dlp.exe to any location.
Launch Command Prompt and enter:
Supported Video Download Sites
yt-dlp supports video downloading from numerous video sharing platforms, including YouTube. Key supported sites include:
- YouTube
- Vimeo
- Dailymotion
- Niconico
- Bilibili
- SoundCloud
- Bandcamp
- Twitch
yt-dlp also supports protocols like HTTP, HTTPS, and FTP, enabling video and audio downloads from various websites. Additionally, it supports streaming protocols like HLS and DASH.
To download videos, follow these steps:
(1) Open a command prompt or terminal.
(2) Execute the yt-dlp command with the URL of the video you wish to download. For example, to download a YouTube video, execute the following command:
(3) The video file will be downloaded. By default, the video file will be saved in the current directory where it was executed.
With the above steps, you can easily download videos. However, it is important to follow the terms of use of YouTube and other video-sharing sites. Also, be careful not to violate copyright laws, personal information protection laws, or other laws.
Can yt-dlp Download Netflix Videos?
Netflix is a subscription-based video service that uses DRM (Digital Rights Management) technology to restrict content downloads. Therefore, you cannot download Netflix content using download tools such as yt-dlp. The restrictions imposed on official downloads include the following:
(1) Downloading of content is restricted to the use of the Netflix application.
(2) The viewing period of downloaded content is limited.
(3) Downloaded content may only be viewed on certain devices.
(4) There may be restrictions on downloadable content depending on the region of distribution.
Subscription video services such as Netflix provide videos protected by DRM (Digital Rights Management). This means that they cannot be downloaded using yt-dlp, a normal download tool. However, you can download Netflix videos by using a service called KeepStreams.
KeepStreams is an online tool that empowers users to download videos from popular streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and others.
(1) Supports various video streaming sites: KeepStreams supports various video streaming sites, including Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, HBO Max, Disney+, and YouTube. It adheres to site-specific restrictions to ensure legal compliance.
(2) Fast and high-quality downloads: KeepStreams enables fast and high-quality downloads. It offers rapid download speeds while maintaining original video and audio quality.
(3) Try the free trial: KeepStreams offers a free trial version. This trial grants a limited number of downloads and a limited viewing period, allowing users to test the service before committing.
(4) User-friendly interface: KeepStreams features an intuitive and simple user interface. Users can easily navigate the site, paste the URL of the desired video, and initiate the download process.
(5) Variety of supported file formats: KeepStreams supports multiple file formats for downloads, including MP4, MKV, FLV, MOV, AVI, WMV, and MP3.
As a specialized video downloader for subscription services, KeepStreams delivers high-quality and user-friendly download solutions.
KeepStreams also provides the ability to download DRM-protected videos. Here's a guide on how to download Netflix videos using KeepStreams:
1) Visit the KeepStreams website and download the software for free.
2) Launch the installed program and navigate to "VIP Services" > "Netflix" from the menu on the left.
(3) Sign in to Netflix, find the video you want to download and begin playing it.
(4) After selecting the video download settings (resolution, audio, subtitles), click "Download" to start the download process.
Conclusion
This article has guided you through understanding yt-dlp, its installation, the video sources it supports, and the method to download Netflix videos. Please note that downloading DRM-protected videos may violate copyright laws, so proceed with caution.
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