Where Is Windows Media Player in Windows 10 or 11?

Windows 11

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by Radu Tyrsina 

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Looking for Windows Media Player in Windows 11 or Windows 10? Here’s exactly how to find it, reinstall it, or switch to the new Media Player app.

✅ Quick Answer:

To open Windows Media Player in Windows 11, press Windows + S, type Windows Media Player, and hit Enter. If it’s missing, you can reinstall it from Optional Features.

📍 Where to Find Windows Media Player in Windows 11

Windows Media Player is still available in Windows 11, though it’s hidden behind newer apps like Groove or the new Media Player Legacy.

To find it:

  1. Press Windows + S to open Search.
  2. Type Windows Media Player.
  3. Select it from the results.

If it doesn’t show up, it may not be installed. See below.

🔄 How to Reinstall Windows Media Player on Windows 11

If you can’t find Windows Media Player, it might have been removed. You can add it back easily:

  1. Open Settings → Apps → Optional Features.
  2. Click View features next to Add an optional feature.
  3. Search for Windows Media Player.
  4. Click Install and restart your PC if prompted.

🎵 Windows Media Player vs. New Media Player App

FeatureWindows Media PlayerNew Media Player App
InterfaceClassic (Windows 7 style)Modern, Fluent Design
Format SupportMP3, WMA, WMV, etc.Broader modern codec support
Available onWindows 10/11Windows 11 only
Recommended forLegacy usersModern users

To install the new Media Player:

  • Go to Microsoft Store → search for Media Player by Microsoft → click Install.

🧩 Can You Still Use Windows Media Player in 2025?

Yes, it works well for basic audio and video playback. However, for new features, better UI, and better format support, Microsoft recommends using the new Media Player app.

🛠️ Troubleshooting: Media Player Not Working?

If you face issues:

  • Make sure it’s enabled in Optional Features.
  • Run the Windows Media Player troubleshooter:
    • Open Settings → Troubleshoot → Other troubleshooters.
  • Try using the System File Checker: bashCopyEditsfc /scannow
  • Or install a modern alternative like VLC Media Player.

📝 Final Thoughts

Windows Media Player is still available in Windows 11 — you just need to know where to look or how to bring it back. For most users, the new Media Player is a better option. But for those who love the classic interface, it’s still just a few clicks away.

Radu Tyrsina

Radu Tyrsina Shield

Radu Tyrsina has been a Windows fan ever since he got his first PC, a Pentium III (a monster at that time). For most of the kids of his age, the Internet was an amazing way to play and communicate with others, but he was deeply impressed by the flow of information and how easily you can find anything on the web. Prior to founding Windows Report, this particular curiosity about digital content enabled him to grow a number of sites that helped hundreds of millions reach faster the answer they're looking for.

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