Secure playback & FAQ
How dRadio keeps older streams playable, and what to try when a station will not start.
How playback works
dRadio is built to make station pages actually playable in modern browsers. Many stations still publish legacy
http:// stream URLs, and browsers may block those streams when you’re browsing a secure https:// site.
Mixed-content-safe playback
Where needed, dRadio routes legacy streams through a secure HTTPS gateway so the player can start without mixed-content errors. Direct HTTPS station streams still play directly when they are already browser-safe; the gateway is a compatibility layer, not a replacement for healthy station infrastructure.
Playback badges on station pages
Station pages use compact trust badges to explain the selected stream: Recently checked means a fresh stream check passed, Secure stream means the station already provides HTTPS audio, and Plays securely means dRadio can play an older HTTP stream through HTTPS.
Session-based protection
Playback is started via a short-lived, listener-specific session. Sessions use expiring signed URLs and a small first-party proof cookie, so copied play URLs cannot be reused as an open proxy.
Privacy note
When a stream is proxied, the upstream broadcast server sees the dRadio gateway IP address rather than your client IP. Stations that support secure HTTPS streams directly may play without proxying.
Corrections & station owner requests
Station metadata changes over time. If you own or represent a station, use the station correction and claim request flows from the station page. Listener-facing health totals are summarized on the directory stats page, and the station directory can be filtered to currently playable stations.
Browse by playback confidence
Start with stations that have played well recently, then come back here when you need help with a stubborn stream.
Troubleshooting FAQ
Common playback issues and quick fixes.
Why won’t a station play?
Common causes are an offline station, a changed stream URL, an expired listening session, or a browser extension blocking requests. Try clicking Listen again or refreshing the page.
What does “session expired” mean?
Playback starts through a short-lived listening session that protects the proxy from automated abuse. Click Listen again or refresh the page to start a new session.
Why does it work here but not on other directories?
Some directories link directly to legacy HTTP streams that modern browsers block on HTTPS pages. dRadio uses secure playback for those streams when needed.
Can an ad blocker break playback?
Some aggressive blockers can misclassify audio gateways or API requests. Allow dRadio in the blocker and retry the station.
What do the playback badges mean?
Recently checked means the selected stream has a fresh healthy check. Secure stream means the station already serves HTTPS audio. Plays securely means dRadio can play an older HTTP stream through HTTPS.
Mobile playback stops when I lock my phone
Some mobile power-saving modes suspend background tabs. Keep the player tab active and disable battery optimization for the browser where possible.