Hp desktop the Media Player doesn't do anything

[Healingismine07]

The Windows Media player won't work. I can't play or burn a CD or DVD. It worked like 9 months ago.

[Raj_05]

Hi @Healingismine07,

Welcome to HP Support Community.

Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you.

If your Windows Media Player on your HP desktop is no longer working to play or burn CDs/DVDs, here are some steps you can try to troubleshoot and resolve the issue.

Check if Windows Media Player is Enabled

• Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
• Type optionalfeatures and press Enter.
• Scroll down and locate Media Features.
• Expand it, ensure Windows Media Player is checked, and click OK.
• If it’s already enabled, uncheck it, restart your PC, then recheck it, and restart again.

Update Windows Media Player

• Press Windows + I to open Settings.
• Go to Update & Security > Windows Update and check for updates.
• Install any updates related to Windows Media Player.

Verify CD/DVD Drive Functionality

• Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
• Expand DVD/CD-ROM drives and ensure your drive is listed without a warning icon.
• If there’s an error, right-click the drive and select Update driver.
• If no update is available, try Uninstall device, then restart your PC to let it reinstall.

Check Default Apps for Playback

• Press Windows + I to open Settings.
• Navigate to Apps > Default apps.
• Scroll down and click Choose default apps by file type.
• Ensure .mp3, .mp4, and other media file types are set to open with Windows Media Player.

Test with a Different CD/DVD

• Insert a different CD/DVD to rule out issues with the media itself.

Reinstall or Repair Windows Media Player

• Open Control Panel > Programs > Programs and Features.
• Select Turn Windows features on or off.
• Uncheck Windows Media Player, click OK, and restart your PC.
• Recheck Windows Media Player, click OK, and restart again.

[Raj_05]

Troubleshoot Playback or Burning Errors

Run the Troubleshooter:

• Press Windows + I to open Settings.
• Go to Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Additional troubleshooters.
• Run the Playing Audio or CD/DVD troubleshooter.

Update or Reinstall Drivers for CD/DVD Drive:

• In Device Manager, right-click your CD/DVD drive and select Update driver.
• If this doesn't work, visit the HP support website and download the latest driver for your model.

Use an Alternative Media Player

If the issue persists, try using other media players, such as:

• VLC Media Player (free and highly compatible).
• Windows Media Player Legacy (if you're using Windows 11, download it from the Microsoft Store).

I hope this helps.

Take care and have a good day.

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Alden4

HP Support