Fix: The database is corrupted.
Windows Media Player on Windows 10 64-bit is not broken, but it is obsolete. Microsoft keeps it alive for enterprise legacy needs and CD ripping. For music, it’s a lightweight champion. For video in 2026, it’s a museum piece. Install VLC or the new Media Player app from the Microsoft Store instead—you’ll get better format support, a modern interface, and no performance loss.
Recommendation: Keep it hidden. Only unhide it if you need to burn an audio CD or browse a large local music folder without distraction.
Windows Media Player on Windows 10 (64-bit)
Overview Windows Media Player (WMP) is Microsoft’s built-in media player for Windows, supporting audio and video playback, basic library management, playlists, CD ripping and burning, and device syncing. On Windows 10 64-bit, WMP remains available as a legacy desktop app alongside newer apps like Films & TV and Groove Music.
Key features
Installation & availability
Common tasks
Formats and codec notes
Troubleshooting
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Alternatives
Security & privacy
Developer & plugin notes
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Windows Media Player (WMP) remains a staple for many Windows 10 users, even as Microsoft shifts focus toward newer applications like the "Media Player" app. For those running Windows 10 64-bit, the classic player is often already included or available as an optional feature. How to Find and Open Windows Media Player
If you are on a standard 64-bit installation of Windows 10, the application is likely already on your system. You can locate it using these methods:
Search Bar: Click the Start button or search icon and type "Windows Media Player". It should appear under the "Best match".
Start Menu: Navigate to Start > Windows Accessories to find the program listed there.
Run Command: Press Windows Key + R, type wmplayer.exe, and hit Enter. How to Install if Missing
If the player is not found, it may be disabled or you might be using a Windows 10 "N" or "KN" edition, which excludes media technologies by default. windows media player windows 10 64-bit
Windows Media Player is available for Windows 10 64-bit in two distinct forms: the modern Windows Media Player (which replaces Groove Music) and the Windows Media Player Legacy (the classic version). How to Install or Enable
Depending on your edition of Windows 10, the player may already be installed or may need to be enabled as an "Optional Feature." Check if it's already there : Type "Windows Media Player" in your taskbar search box. Enable the Legacy version Apps & features Manage optional features Add a feature Search for Windows Media Player , select it, and click For Windows 10 N or KN editions
: These versions do not include media technologies by default. You must download and install the Media Feature Pack Microsoft Support to use the player. Version Comparison Windows Media Player Legacy - Microsoft Support
Windows Media Player (WMP) remains available for Windows 10 64-bit, though its presence depends on your specific Windows edition. While the classic "Legacy" version is often pre-installed, a modern "Media Player" app has also been introduced as its successor How to Install or Enable Windows Media Player
If you cannot find the player on your system, it is likely disabled or needs to be added as an optional feature. Open Settings : Click the button and select the gear icon, or press Navigate to Optional Features Apps & features Optional features Add the Feature Add a feature . Scroll down to find Windows Media Player (or search for it), select it, and click Restart Your PC
: A reboot is typically required to complete the installation. Special Case: Windows 10 "N" or "KN" Editions
If you are using a Windows 10 "N" edition (common in Europe), media features are excluded by default to comply with regional regulations. Windows Media Player Legacy - Microsoft Support Fix: The database is corrupted
Compared to VLC, MPC-HC, or even the default Windows 10 “Movies & TV” app: