Windows Media Player Error Message if the Year Is Not Correct

SYMPTOMS

When you start Windows Media Player, you may receive an error message that is similar to the following:

Windows Media Player has encountered a problem and needs to close. We are sorry for the inconvenience

This issue may occur if the year is set incorrectly in the Date and Time tool in Control Panel.

To resolve this issue, correct the year setting in the Date and Time tool in Control Panel:

Click Start, click Control Panel, and then double-click Date and Time.
Change the date and time settings to the correct year, month, day and time.
Click OK.

kbprb KB811255

Microsoft Support