What is DirecTV Error Code 721? How to Fix DirecTV Error Code 721?

DirecTV error code 721 is an error message that means you either don't have a subscription for the channel you're trying to watch, or your receiver doesn't have the necessary information for that channel.

by Menaga K

Updated Sep 19, 2023

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What is DirecTV Error Code 721? How to Fix DirecTV Error Code 721?
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What is Directv Error Code 721?

DirecTV error code 721 means you're trying to watch a channel that isn't part of your subscription. This might be because you haven't subscribed to that channel, or your receiver isn't receiving the necessary information for that channel.

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Cause Of Directv Error Code 721

  • The channel is not part of the user’s subscription plan. The user can verify this by checking the channel guide or the DirecTV website.
  • The receiver is not activated or updated properly. The user can renew the receiver’s service authorization by calling DirecTV customer service or using the online tool.
  • The receiver has difficulty communicating with the satellite dish or the DirecTV server. The user can restart the receiver by unplugging it from the power source for 15 seconds and plugging it back in.
  • The satellite dish alignment or connections are blocked or damaged. The user can inspect the satellite dish for any problems and fix them.
  • The smart card or access card in the receiver is damaged or expired. The user can change the card if it is not functioning correctly.

How to Fix Directv Error Code 721?

Here is a step-by-step procedure to fix DirectTV:

Check Channel Subscription: 

  • Visit the DirecTV channel lineup page and click on "Check it" under the "Get Channel Lineup" option.
  • Scroll through the available packages and locate your subscribed package.
  • Verify if the problematic channel is included and activated in your current package. If the channel shows a question mark, it means it's not active or included.
  • If you want to activate the channel, contact customer support to renew your package.

DirecTV Service:

  • Make sure the DirecTV receiver is not streaming any channel.
  • Unplug the receiver's power cord from the power source and from the back of the receiver. Wait for about 15 seconds.
  • Plug the power cord back in and press the power button to boot up the receiver. 
  • Check if the error code 721 issue is resolved.

Reset Your Receiver:

  • Locate the Reset button on the backside of the receiver, usually found inside the access card door.
  • Press the small red Reset button once.
  • Wait for the receiver to restart, and all the lights should flash simultaneously.
  • After the reset, check if the issue persists.

Contact ATT DirecTV Support: 

  • If the above steps didn't resolve the error code 721 issue, reach out to ATT DirecTV Support for additional troubleshooting steps or further investigation.
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DirectTV

DirecTV is a multichannel video programming distributor that offers digital satellite service to customers in the United States. It also offers linear television service over IP through U-verse TV and a Virtual MVPD service through DirecTV Stream. It competes with other satellite, cable, IP-based, and over-the-top video providers.

DirecTV was launched on June 17, 1994, by Hughes Electronics Corporation, a subsidiary of General Motors. It was the first high-powered direct broadcast satellite service in the world. It initially offered 175 channels and grew rapidly in the following years. In 1999, it acquired PrimeStar, another satellite provider, and expanded its coverage to the entire continental United States. 

In 2001, it acquired USSB, a premium movie service, and added more channels and features. In 2003, it merged with EchoStar Communications Corporation, the parent company of Dish Network, but the deal was blocked by the Federal Communications Commission and the Department of Justice due to antitrust concerns.

In 2004, DirecTV was acquired by News Corporation, which owned Fox Broadcasting Company and other media assets. Under News Corporation, DirecTV launched new services such as high-definition television (HDTV), digital video recorder (DVR), interactive TV, and local channels in major markets. In 2006, it introduced DirecTV Plus, a hybrid satellite and internet service that offered video on demand and broadband access. 

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In 2008, News Corporation sold its stake in DirecTV to Liberty Media Corporation, which owned Starz Entertainment and other media assets. Under Liberty Media, DirecTV continued to expand its services and customer base. In 2010, it launched DirecTV Cinema, a pay-per-view service that offered movies and events in HD and 3D.

In 2011, it launched DirecTV Everywhere, a service that allowed customers to watch live and recorded programs on their mobile devices. In 2012, it launched Genie, an advanced DVR that could record up to five shows at once and store up to 200 hours of HD content. In 2013, it launched DirecTV Audience Network, an original programming channel that featured dramas, comedies, documentaries, and sports.

In 2014, AT&T announced that it would acquire DirecTV for $67.1 billion. The deal was approved by the Federal Communications Commission and the Department of Justice in 2015. Under AT&T, DirecTV became part of AT&T’s Entertainment Group, which also included U-verse TV, a linear television service delivered by IP; AT&T TV Now (formerly DirecTV Now), a Virtual MVPD service that offered live and on-demand programming over the internet; and HBO Max (formerly HBO Now), a streaming service that offered premium content from HBO and other WarnerMedia brands.

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Disclaimer: The above information is for general informational purposes only. All information on the Site is provided in good faith, however we make no representation or warranty of any kind, express or implied, regarding the accuracy, adequacy, validity, reliability, availability or completeness of any information on the Site.

What is Directv Error Code 721 - FAQs

1. What is DirecTV Error Code 721?

DirecTV Error Code 721 indicates that you're attempting to watch a channel for which you don't have a subscription or your receiver isn't receiving the required program information for that specific channel.

2. Will my existing TV services (DirecTV or AT&T U-verse) change as a result of this acquisition? 

No, your existing TV services will not change as a result of this acquisition. You will continue to enjoy the same channels, packages, features, and customer service as before1.

3. Will this deal cause my current TV package prices to go up or down? 

The deal will not affect your current TV package prices. However, prices may change over time due to market conditions, programming costs, taxes, fees, and other factors

4. Will I need to install a satellite dish at my house to get DirecTV? 

Yes, you will need to install a satellite dish at your house to get DirecTV satellite service. However, you can also get DirecTV Stream service without a satellite dish, as long as you have a compatible device and a high-speed internet connection

5. How does DirecTV compare to cable?

DirecTV offers more channels, more HD content, more sports packages, more DVR storage, and more advanced features than cable. It also has a higher customer satisfaction rating than cable1.
 

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