How to Convert a YouTube Video to WMV for Free (6 Steps)

By Ian Moore

i Jochen Sand/Photodisc/Getty Images

WMV or Windows Media Video is a file format designed for the Windows Media Player. Most YouTube converting programs can only convert the video into MP4 or FLV format. Although a video plays fine in this format, it cannot play in Windows Media Player. In order to do this, the YouTube video must be converted into a WMV file.

Converting the YouTube video

Step 1

Convert the video at the KeepVid website. Enter the video URL into the space provided and click "Download."

Step 2

Type the security encryption code and click "Submit." Choose a new code if you are unable to read the one that is displayed.

Step 3

Choose to download either an FLV (low quality) or MP4 (high quality) file. Right-click on the download link and select "Save Link As." Enter a file name and click "Save."

Converting the FLV or MP4 file to WMV

Step 1

Download a WMV converter. Go to the Convert Files website and click "Free Download." Click the "Download" button and select "Save File" to begin downloading the AVS Video Converter.

Step 2

Install the WMV converter. Double-click on the ".Exe" icon and click "Run." Select a language, accept the license agreement, choose a destination on your computer, and click "Install." Click "Finish" to launch the application.

Step 3

Convert to WMV. Select "To WMV" on the top menu. Click "Browse" beside "Input File Name." Choose the YouTube file and click "Open." Click "Convert Now." This process could take as long as 30 minutes depending on the file size.

Writer Bio