[Resolved] Fix Kodi Unable to Connect Error - Couldn't Retrieve Directory Information

Updated on July 14, 2023

Thanks to all sorts of add-ons, which make Kodi omnipotent in media entertainment. In addition to the official built-in repository, Kodi also allows users to install the third-party add-on or repository. However, everyone is supposed to experience Kodi Unable to connect error message, I bet. Next, I've sorted out and listed 3 solutions below.

Cause 1: Internet Connection Problem

Cause 2: Type a Wrong Source URL

Cause 3: Repository is Banned

As you know, countless developers around the world have produced a large number of practical add-ons for Kodi, which not only add new features to your media center, but most importantly, make it easier for you to watch movies and TV shows. Meanwhile, the 3rd-party repositories which host various popular add-ons also emerge at the right moment. However, it's an ineffable pain that everyone should encounter a Kodi Unable to connect error:

Unable to connect

Couldn't retrieve directory information. This could be due to the network not being connected. Would you like to add it anyway?

Actually, it cannot be blamed on Kodi itself but a capricious or not-working add-on or repository. To solve this issue, I have compiled 3 possible causes and corresponding solutions. Go ahead and learn details.

Kodi Could Not Connect to Repository

Cause One - Internet Connection Problem

Although there is a slim possibility, you'll undoubtedly run into Kodi unable to connect issue when the internet connection is not working properly. So first of all, you should check your network connection on your device.

Solution: Since Kodi shares the same network connection with computer or other devices in the same Wi-Fi environment, check if the internet access works properly outside Kodi. If not, troubleshoot the issue using Network Diagnostics or something like that on your device. Also, reboot Kodi, your modem, rooter and even the device to make a further troubleshooting. Generally, it will somehow settle this case.

Cause Two - Type a Wrong Source URL

It's a human nature that people always make a typo mistake or miss something, which inevitably results in the "couldn't retrieve directory information" issue.

Solution: Recheck the source URL if there is any error. Make sure the URL is in lower-case letters and begin with "http://" or "https://" without extra space and symbol. The best way to avoid this awkward situation is to copy the URL and paste to Kodi.

Unable to Connect Kodi

Cause Three - Repository is Banned

As you know, there is a long-standing war against the pirate. Many 3d-party Kodi repositories manage and host add-ons that enable people to illegally stream copyrighted content so that they have been banned or shut down by Kodi Official and authorities. These repositories have to keep changing domains to avoid the risk, e.g. TVAddons.ag, now the site owner is using owner TVAddons.co.

Solution: In this case, you can continue to use this repo only if you know the new URL. Generally, you may receive the notification It's pretty simple to verify if the source URL works. Input or paste the URL of repo in your browser, you're able to open the page and see some folders that contain various ZIP files of Kodi add-ons, conversely, you'll see the page cannot be reached.

Kodi Couldn't Connect to Network Server

To correct the source URL, follow the steps below.

Step 1. Run Kodi, click on the gearwheel icon below the KODI trademark.

Press Cogwheel Icon

Step 2. Go to "File manager" category.

Open File Manager

Step 3. Right-click on the invalid source URL and choose "Edit source".

Edit Source

Step 4. Click on the URL and switch to the on-screen keyboard.

Open On-screen Keyboard

Step 5. Correct the URL and click OK.

Correct Source URL

Step 6. Finally, hit OK to fix this issue.

Fix Kodi Could Not Connect to Repository Issue

At last...

After walking through this post, you may diagnose and figure out the possible reasons for Kodi couldn't retrieve directory information issue. In addition to that, give a further trial on using a VPN. Because sometimes, the repository URL may be somehow restricted or blocked by your ISP. If the problem persists, do not dwell too much on it, the final solution is to shed some light on other alternative working repositories.

How to & Tips

[Resolved] Fix Kodi Unable to Connect Error - Couldn't Retrieve Directory Information

Cause One - Internet Connection Problem

Cause Two - Type a Wrong Source URL

Cause Three - Repository is Banned