MP4 is a popular video file format, which you can use to save your important and memorable video files easily. However, sometimes due to virus or malware attacks, damaged file headers, etc., can lead to your MP4 videos get suddenly corrupted or become unplayable. Sudden corruption of your MP4 videos results in playback errors, missing audio, distorted video, or other distressful issues.
Luckily, several free online video repair tools and techniques are available that you can use to repair corrupt video files in one go. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll discuss different reasons for MP4 video corruption and quick steps to repair video online for free.
Common Reasons for MP4 File Corruption
Before you proceed with different methods for video repair online, it’s important to understand why MP4 files get corrupted. Some main reasons for the corruption are:
- Interrupted File Transfers: If the process of transferring MP4 videos between devices is interrupted due to unexpected system shutdowns, improper connection, or unstable internet connection, your files may get corrupted.
- Unsupported Media Players: Playing MP4 videos on unsupported or outdated media players can change your file’s metadata or damage its content.
- Virus or Malware: Malicious programs like viruses or malware can damage the MP4 video files stored on your device, rendering them unplayable.
- File Header Damage: The MP4 file header contains all important metadata about the video. If the header gets damaged, the file won’t open or play properly.
- Faulty Storage Devices: If the storage device, including SD cards, USB drives, or hard drives, gets damaged, it can lead to MP4 file corruption.
Signs of a Corrupted MP4 File
When your MP4 video gets corrupted due to any of the above reasons, you may encounter the following issues while playing it:
- Your video might fail to play on any media player.
- You may encounter playback issues, such as freezing, skipping, or stuttering while playing MP4 video.
- Audio in your video file gets distorted or missing.
- Show visual errors like dark frames or pixelation.
- Display error warnings like “unsupported format” or “file not recognized.”
How do I Repair Corrupted MP4 Video Files Online?
When you encounter any of the aforementioned issues while playing your MP4 video, it is important to act immediately. There are several third-party video repair software tools available online that you can try to repair your corrupt video easily. However, if you don’t want any additional installation, then online video repair tools like Stellar Online Video Repair can help you.
The Stellar Online Video Repair tool allows you to repair corrupt or damaged video files of several formats, including MP4, MOV, AVI, etc. in a few simple steps. You can use this tool to repair videos corrupted due to multiple reasons, such as header damage, video-audio sync issues, and many more.
Key Features of Stellar Online Video Repair Tool:
- The free version supports the repair of corrupt/damaged video files up to 100 MB. To repair files of larger size, you can use the premium version.
- 100% safe and secure software; free from viruses or malware.
- Allows you to repair corrupt video files without any software installation.
- You can preview repaired files before saving them on your device.
Step-by-Step Guide to Repair MP4 Files Online Using Stellar Online Video Repair
Follow the below steps to repair your corrupted MP4 file using the amazing Stellar Online Video Repair tool:
Step 1: Go to Stellar Online Video Repair tool’s official website. Click the Upload Video button to add the corrupt video file that you need to fix.
Step 2: After uploading your corrupt video, add a playable sample video (captured with the same device and with the same video file format) and click the Start Repair button. The time to complete the repair process depends on the file size and the degree of damage.
Step 3: Once the repair process is complete, preview the repaired video file and click the Save Repaired Video button to save it at the desired location on your device.
Tips to Prevent MP4 File Corruption
The above steps on video repair online are quite easy to implement, but it is important to avoid such corruption issues from your end. Here are some additional tips that you can consider to prevent video file corruption issues in the future:
- Use Reliable Storage Devices: Invest in high-quality storage devices to reduce the risk of stored file corruption.
- Backup Regularly: Maintain regular backup of your important files on external devices or cloud storage like Google Cloud, Google Drive, etc.
- Avoid Interruptions: Ensure there is no interruption during file transfer or downloads by using stable connections and power supply.
- Update Media Player: Keep the media player or audio-video drivers installed on your device up-to-date.
Final Thoughts
Having a corrupted MP4 video can be a distressful experience, especially when it contains something memorable or precious. When you find your MP4 video corrupted, go with the above steps one-by-one to repair corrupted video files online for free. If online tools fail to resolve the issue, you may need to use professional video repair software or seek professional services. Moreover, you can create a backup of your important video files to help with sudden corruption or data loss issues.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I repair corrupt MP4 video files for free?
Yes, there are several online video repair software tools available that you can use to repair corrupt videos for free. Though the free versions are limited in features, you can use premium versions to use advanced features.
What causes MP4 video to become corrupted?
MP4 files get corrupted due to improper file transfers, sudden interruptions during recording, or codec-related issues.
What should I do if online tools can’t repair my MP4 file?
If online tools fail, consider using professional video repair software or consulting a video recovery expert to fix your damaged video files easily.
Does the Stellar Online Video Repair tool support the repairing of multiple files at once?
No, you can only fix one corrupt video file at a time using the Stellar online video repair tool. To repair multiple files simultaneously, professional video repair software like Stellar Repair for Video can be the best option.
