How to Play OGG Files in Windows Media Player

By Jeff Grundy

Although most audio or music files are still saved and distributed in the popular ".MP3" format, there is a growing number of users turning to another type of audio file encryption. Ogg Vorbis Codec Compressed Media, or OGG for short, is gaining in popularity because of its open-source development and smaller file size when compared to MP3 and other audio formats. OGG compression usually results in lower loss of fidelity when compared to MP3 or MP4 audio compressed files of the same size. By default, Windows Media Player does not play or recognize OGG files, but you can easily add support to the player with a free download from the developers of the format.

Step 1

Visit the XIPH website and download the DirectShow Filters needed to play OGG files in Windows Media Player (see Resources). Save the installation file to your computer.

Step 2

Right-click on the "Start" button and click the "Explore" or "Open Windows Explorer" option. Browse to the folder where you saved the DirectShow Filters setup file on your computer.

Step 3

Double-click the setup file to launch the installation utility. Follow the on-screen prompts to install the DirectShow Filters on your computer. Restart the computer if prompted to do so.

Step 4

Browse to the folder that contains an OGG audio or music file. Right-click on the file, then click the "Play with Windows Media Player" option on the pop-up menu.

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