Windows Media Player is a built-in multimedia player that comes with Windows. While it is a reliable and widely used application, users may encounter errors and issues from time to time. This article aims to provide guidance on troubleshooting common Windows Media Player errors.

Windows includes codecs that allow Media Player to play the following formats out of the box: Audio codecs. MPEG-1, MPEG-2 audio (e.g. MP3, MP2)

Windows Media Player is available for Windows-based devices. Use this table to find the right version of the Player for your system. (If you've got a Mac, you can download Windows Media Components for QuickTime to play Windows Media files.)

Learn how to download and customize Windows Media Player. Get troubleshooting help and how-to information for Windows Media Player 12.

Plug-ins or add-ons add functionality—such as audio effects or DVD capability—to Windows Media Player. You can download plug-ins or add-ons for your version of the Player using the links below.

1. Check your speaker output. 2. Run the audio troubleshooter. 3. Verify that all Windows Updates are installed. 4. Check your cables, plugs, jacks, volume, speaker, and headphone connections. 5. Check sound settings. 6. Fix your audio drivers. 7. Set your audio device as the default device. 8. Turn off audio enhancements. 9. Restart Audio Services

Additionally, you can stream audio and video content with Windows Media Services, or you can package that content with Windows Media Rights Manager. ASF is an extensible file format that stores synchronized multimedia data.

Enhance your listening experience with features such as 3-D surround sound, hyperbass, and headphone optimization. Get plug-in. Plug-ins or add-ons add functionality—such as audio effects or DVD capability—to Windows Media Player.

Windows Media Player is available for Windows-based devices. Use this table to find the right version of the Player for your system. (If you've got a Mac, you can download Windows Media Components for QuickTime to play Windows Media files.)

Windows 10. Windows Media Player is included with Windows 10 desktop. Note that the app no longer plays DVDs. Find Windows Media Player on your PC: Use the search box on the taskbar to search for "Windows Media Player". Read more about DVD playback options for Windows.