VLC on Windows

Updated: September 23, 2026

Installation

VLC (VLC Media Player) is a free, open-source, cross-platform media player. It is considered one of the most versatile media players available, as it can play virtually any audio and video format without requiring additional codecs.


  • Open the official VLC Media Player website
  • On the home page, click the "Download VLC" button to download the installer.
  • Run the VLC installer.


Opening a Playlist:

  • Launch the application.
  • Open the "Media" menu from the top menu bar (or press Ctrl + N).
  • Select "Open Network Stream..."
  • In the window that opens, go to the "Network" tab, enter the playlist URL, and click "Play".

Note:

To get the playlist or file, go to the My Devices section and click the corresponding button to the right of the device name:

  • Select "Other".
  • Choose either M3U or M3U8.
  • Under "Playlist Links", either copy the playlist URL or click "Download Playlist", depending on your preferred playlist format.
Frequently asked questions

Changing the Audio Track Language:

  • Open the top menu.
  • Select "Audio".
  • Choose "Audio Track".

Playlist Does Not Load:

  • Check that the playlist URL is correct.
  • Try using different playlist URL types: HTTP and HTTPS.
  • Run the automatic server selection, switch to the recommended server, and restart the application after 10 minutes.

Video Buffering:

  • Run the automatic server selection, switch to the recommended server, and restart the application after 10 minutes.

​

Still need help?

Write to us — we’ll help you work it out.