VLC: Play Video, Audio, and Network Streams
Play a variety of formats and switch between speeds, subtitles, audio tracks and network streams. This guide covers installation, practical steps, limitations, and how to stop using the app.
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Who this guide is for and what to prepare
- First-time users of VLC media player
- People who want to check the storage location and safety of data while reducing manual work
What you need
- Check the processing target and storage location, and preserve the original data in another location
- Check the official distribution source, supported OS, and required permissions
When to use it
Play a variety of formats and switch between speeds, subtitles, audio tracks and network streams.
Install the official version
- Obtain the OS version from videolan.org/vlc and select only the file associations you need.
Try it
Play by selecting [Media] → [Open File]. Specify SRT etc. in [Subtitles] → [Add subtitle file]. Check the format in [Tools] → [Codec Information]. Paste the URL in [Open network stream]. If something goes wrong, use [Settings] → [Reset Settings].
- Play with [Media] → [Open file]
- Specify SRT etc. in [Subtitles] → [Add subtitle file]
- Check the format in [Tools] → [Codec Information]
- Paste the URL to [Open network stream]
- If you have a problem, use [Settings] → [Reset settings]
Use it safely
Codec support does not mean DRM removal. Check the source before opening unknown network URLs or subtitle files.
Turn it off or restore settings
If you just want to finish playing, press the stop button and close the VLC window. If you change the subtitle position, etc., only the relevant settings will be restored. Resetting settings also initializes other settings, so don't use it when you simply want to stop playback.
Limitations and requirements
- Codec support does not mean DRM removal. Check the source before opening unknown network URLs or subtitle files
- Check the current specifications in the official documentation and reconfirm on-screen what you want to delete or overwrite.
Frequently asked questions
Why will a network URL not play?
A regular web page URL and a stream URL that can be played directly are different. Check whether the distribution side provides playback on external players such as VLC, and check the authentication and DRM conditions.
Subtitles are garbled
Check whether the subtitle file supports the text encoding. Make a copy of the original SRT, save the copy as UTF-8, and check VLC's subtitle text-encoding setting.
Official sources and verification date
Sources checked: . Check the official sources below for changes to supported systems, plans and menus.
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