By Achilles Hill | Last Updated
Windows Media Player (WMP) is a built-in media player for Windows users, allowing them to play audio and video files effortlessly. However, sometimes WMP displays the frustrating message: “Windows Media Player cannot play the file.” This issue can be caused by several factors, such as unsupported file formats, missing codecs, or corrupted media files. If you’re facing this problem, don’t worry—this guide will walk you through the possible causes and solutions to fix it.
Before jumping into the solutions, it's essential to understand why this issue occurs. Here are some common reasons:
1. Unsupported File Format
Windows Media Player supports various file formats, including MP3, MP4, WMV, and AVI. However, it may not support certain newer or uncommon formats like MKV, FLAC, or MOV without additional codecs.
2. Missing Codecs
A codec is a program that compresses and decompresses media files. If WMP doesn’t have the required codec for a specific file type, it won’t be able to play it.
3. Corrupted or Damaged File
If the media file is partially downloaded, improperly transferred, or damaged, WMP may fail to open it.
4. Outdated Windows Media Player
An outdated version of WMP might lack support for newer file formats or contain bugs preventing playback.
5. DRM Protection
Some media files, especially those purchased online, are protected with Digital Rights Management (DRM) restrictions, preventing playback on unauthorized devices or software.
6. Audio/Video Driver Issues
Outdated or corrupted sound and video drivers can interfere with media playback, causing errors in WMP.
First, verify whether the file format is supported by WMP. Here’s a list of some commonly supported formats: MP3, MP4, AVI, WMV, WMA, WAV, MPEG, ASF.
If the file format is unsupported, such as MKV, FLAC, MOV, WEBM, convert it to a WMP-compatible format using a free tool like HandBrake or Freemake Video Converter.
If the Windows Media Player doesn’t have the necessary codecs for your file, it would fail to play the video or audio file. You can download and install K-Lite Codec Pack to get the required codecs.
Step 1: Head to https://codecguide.com/download_kl.htm . Download and install the Standard or Full version. In the Installation Preferences windows, select Windows Media Player as the Preferred video player and Preferred audio player.
Step 2: Restart your computer and try playing the file again in WMP.
If WMP doesn’t support the file, try using an alternative media player:
Simply download and install VLC or MPC-HC and try playing the file.
If the Windows Media Player is outdated, your file would fail to play due to compatibility issue. You can try to update the Windows Media Player.
Step 1: Open Windows Media Player. Then click Help and choose About Windows Media Player from the context-menu. If you fail to find Tools on the top menu, press Ctrl + M to show the menu bar.
Step 2: Click Help > Check for updates to update the WMP.
If the file is corrupted or incomplete, WMP won’t be able to play it. In such a situation, you can use a video repair tool, such as iSunshare XRepair Genius, to fix the corrupted video files. By using this video fixer, you can easily fix various video playback errors, such as video file error code 232011.
Step 1: Download and install iSunshare XRepair Genius on your PC. Then locate Video Repair in the left side.
Step 2: Click the Add Video button to select the videos which cannot be played in WMP.
Step 3: Click the Repair button to fix all selected videos at once.
Step 4: The files are successfully repaired. You can click the Save button to export them to a local folder. After that, play the video on your Windows Media Player again and it should work normally.
If the file is DRM-protected, you may need to use the original licensed player or software to play it. For example, files bought from iTunes may only play in Apple Music or QuickTime.
Outdated or corrupted drivers can cause playback issues. To update drivers:
Step 1: Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
Step 2: Expand Sound, Video and Game Controllers. Right-click on it and then choose Update Driver. Follow the on-screen instructions to update the driver.
Step 3: Repeat the same for Display Adapters (Graphics Card).
Step 4: Restart your PC and try playing the file again.
Windows has a built-in troubleshooter to fix media player issues.
Step 1: Press Windows + I to open Settings.
Step 2: Go to Update & Security > Troubleshoot.
Step 3: Click Additional troubleshooters > Video Playback.
Step 4: Hit the Run the troubleshooter button to find and fix problems in playing videos.
1. Why does Windows Media Player say "Cannot Play the File" even though the format is supported?
Even if the file format is supported, missing codecs, file corruption, or DRM restrictions could prevent playback. Try installing the K-Lite Codec Pack or using VLC Media Player as an alternative.
2. Can I fix a corrupted MP4 file that won’t play in Windows Media Player?
Yes, you can use a video repair tool like iSunshare XRepair Genius to fix a corrupted MP4 file.
3. How do I check if my file is DRM-protected?
Right-click the file and select Properties. Under the Details tab, check if there are any DRM-related restrictions.
By following the troubleshooting steps above—such as installing codecs, using an alternative media player, or updating drivers—you can quickly resolve the problem Windows Media Player cannot play the file, and enjoy your media files without interruption.
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