Windows Media Player and MP4 files make for a compatible pair for Windows users, considering that they are the most widely used media player and video format. The combination generally provides a seamless experience; however, numerous users have reported occasional issues where their Windows Media Player fails to play MP4 files.

Some MP4 files are not playing in my Windows Media Player. However, they can be played on all other media players, such as VLC, KM Player, etc. What could be the issue, and how can I resolve it? - from Microsoft Community

It's frustrating when you've got everything set for your favorite movie. That's why we're sharing this post with you. Keep reading to find possible solutions.

#1. Repair Corrupted MP4 Files with Video Repair Software

If, unfortunately, your video file becomes corrupted and won't play, seek assistance from Fixo Video Repair tools. This AI-equipped video repair tool can promptly 修复损坏的MP4文件 with just a few simple clicks.

As the most widespread video format, MP4 has the highest repair success rate. Apart from fixing corrupted MP4 files, this tool excels in various other situations, including:

Click the download button to install the tool called Fixo Video Repair, and then follow the instructions below to fix your corrupted MP4 files:

✨Step 1. Download, install, and open the Fixo Video Repair tool

Click the download button or visit the Fixo official website to download and install this video repair tool. In the interface, click "Video Repair" > "Add Videos" to upload movies, recordings, or other video files from various storage devices.

add videos to repair with Fixo

✨Step 2. Begin the video repair process now

If you don't want to repair all videos at once, you can select a single one and choose "Repair." Click the trash button to remove the video from the repair list.

select videos to repair

✨Step 3. Preview and save repaired videos In this step, you will be able to preview the repaired videos to ensure that they are fixed successfully. Once you're satisfied with the result, save the videos to your desired location on your computer.

It may take longer to repair larger videos. Click the play button to preview the repaired videos, and click "Save All" to save these video files. The "View Repaired" button will direct you directly to the folder containing the repaired files.

Save repaired videos in Fixo

✨Step 4. Perform advanced repair if necessary

If the video displays "Quick Repair Failed," it indicates that the video is severely damaged, and it's recommended to use the advanced repair mode. Click "Advanced Repair" > the folder icon > "Confirm" to add a sample video.

add sample videos for advanced repair

✨Step 5. Check the Match Result

A pop-up window will let you know if the sample video is useful for repairing the damaged ones. It displays detailed information about both the corrupted and sample videos. Click "Repair Now" to initiate the advanced video repair process.

Click "Repair Now" to initiate the advanced repair process.

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#2. Use the Windows Troubleshooter

Running the built-in Windows Troubleshooter is another viable option. You can resolve video playback issues by following these detailed steps:

Step 1. Open Settings by pressing the Windows + I keys.

Step 2. Select "System" from the left panel, then click the "Troubleshoot" option on the right.

Step 3. Click "Other troubleshooters" and scroll down to find "Video Playback". Click "Run".

Step 4. Wait for Windows to fix the issue and then restart your PC. Try playing your MP4 video again.

go to other troubleshooters This image depicts a button or link labeled "Go to other troubleshooters" within a system troubleshooting interface. It suggests navigating to additional troubleshooting tools or options for resolving issues.

This post might come in handy when you encounter issues while updating the Windows Troubleshooter:

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#3. Convert Video Format

To determine if the video playback issue persists, you can attempt to convert your video file to another format that is supported by Windows Media Player. You can use the VLC media player for assistance. Follow these steps:

Step 1. Open the VLC media player and navigate to the "Media" tab. From the dropdown menu, choose "Convert/Save."

select cobvert or save Choose "Convert" or "Save".

Step 2. Tap the "Add" button to upload the MP4 file that you want to convert.

click add to add file

Step 3. Click "Convert" from the "Convert/Save" menu.

choose convert

Step 4. Next, select an output format. To choose the save location, click "Browse".

Step 5. Tap on the "Start" button to proceed.

Share this post with your friends or colleagues who are encountering this game issue:

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#4. Install Required Codecs

All media players require codecs to compress or decompress their media files. Even Windows Media Player won't be able to play MP4 files if certain specific codecs are absent or if you encounter a "video codec not supported" issue. Here's the process you should follow to install the desired codecs:

Step 1. Open Windows Media Player and navigate to "Tools" > "Options" > "Players."

Step 2. In the Player tab, go to "Automatic updates" and select either "Once a day" or "Once a week".

Step 3. Click "OK," and Windows Media Player will download the codecs automatically.

Select Automatic Updates

"Windows Media Player Cannot Play MP4" FAQs

To assist you in better understanding the source of this error, please refer to the FAQs here:

1. Why isn't my MP4 file playing?

There are various reasons that can cause the MP4 not playing issue:

  • Incompatible video format
  • Missing or incomplete codec
  • Corrupted or damaged MP4 files
  • Outdated media player

2. How do I play an MP4 file in Windows Media Player?

You can follow the steps outlined here:

    1. Click "Start" and then select "File Explorer." 2. Right-click on the MP4 file you wish to play. 3. Choose "Open with Windows Media Player."

3. How do I repair a corrupted MP4 file in Windows Media Player?

The simplest and quickest method might be to use video repair software like Fixo Video Repair. With just a few clicks, you can complete the entire repair process. You can download this tool by clicking on any of the provided buttons.

Conclusion

Several common factors can lead to the "Windows Media Player cannot play MP4" error, such as an outdated media player version, missing video codecs, incompatible video formats, and more. Installing missing codecs, converting the video file format, and utilizing the Windows Troubleshooter can be quite helpful when needed. However, if your video is corrupted, consider using video repair software like Fixo Video Repair as the initial solution.