Windows Media Player 11 doesn't download codecs for avi files

2

I've got some avi files that WMP will play the audio for but not the video. Why doesn't WMP download the codecs it needs? Or is the solution to download a codec pack and install that manually?

In "Options > Player" the "Download codecs automatically" option is checked.

I've installed VLC so I can watch them, which I'm quite happy about so I don't need a recommendation for a new player.

ChrisF

Posted 2010-05-31T21:01:19.303

Reputation: 39 650

Answers

1

Avi is not a codec or file format. It's a container format... It means that inside an avi-file, about any codec can be used. Some codecs are just not integrated in WMP and Microsoft will or can not integrate those. (Usually for legal reasons)

Installing codec packs would do, I've always used the codec packs from http://www.free-codecs.com/ (The K-Lite Codec pack should provide in all your needs) and it worked for me. Of course, VLC would do too! ;)

BloodPhilia

Posted 2010-05-31T21:01:19.303

Reputation: 27 374

I know that avi is just the container. I was wondering why WMP didn't go off and download the codecs it needs. – ChrisF – 2010-05-31T21:35:57.347

The reason fot that is also mentioned in my answer. – BloodPhilia – 2010-05-31T22:31:36.920