Blog

Windows Media Player is a popular tool for playing audio and video files on Windows 11. However, sometimes it may crash unexpectedly, causing frustration. This article will guide you through simple and clear steps to fix Windows Media Player crashes.

Whether you are a beginner or have some technical knowledge, these instructions will help you troubleshoot effectively. We start with the easiest fixes and gradually move to more advanced solutions.

By following this guide, you can restore smooth playback and enjoy your media without interruptions. Let’s begin by checking some quick notes before diving into the solutions.

These steps are designed to be straightforward and easy to understand, so you can fix the problem without any hassle.

Quick Note: Before You Start

Before applying any fixes, it’s good to check a few things that might be causing Windows Media Player to crash:

• Restart your computer: Sometimes, a simple reboot clears temporary issues.
• Check for Windows Updates: Updates can fix bugs affecting Windows Media Player.
• Ensure your media files are not corrupted: Try playing different files to see if the problem persists.
• Close other programs: Running many applications at once can cause conflicts or reduce system resources.

Step 1: Run the Windows Media Player Troubleshooter

Windows 11 includes a built-in troubleshooter that can automatically detect and fix common issues with Windows Media Player. This is often the quickest fix.

1. Click the Start button and select Settings.
2. Go to System and then choose Troubleshoot.
3. Click on Other troubleshooters.
4. Find Windows Media Player Settings and click Run.
5. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the troubleshooting process.

This tool checks for configuration problems and attempts automatic repairs, which often resolves crashes.

Step 2: Clear the Windows Media Player Cache

Sometimes, corrupted cache files can cause Windows Media Player to crash. Clearing the cache can help fix this problem.

1. Close Windows Media Player if it’s open.
2. Press Windows + R keys to open the Run dialog box.
3. Type %LOCALAPPDATA%MicrosoftMedia Player and press Enter.
4. In the folder that opens, delete all the files with the extension .wmdb.
5. Restart Windows Media Player and check if the crashes continue.

Deleting these database files forces the player to rebuild its media library, fixing issues caused by corrupted data.

Step 3: Update Windows Media Player

Windows Media Player updates are included with Windows Update. Keeping your system and player updated ensures you have the latest fixes and improvements.

1. Open Settings from the Start menu.
2. Go to Windows Update.
3. Click Check for updates.
4. If updates are available, download and install them.
5. Restart your computer after the update completes.

Running the latest version helps avoid bugs that cause crashes.

Step 4: Disable Hardware Acceleration

Hardware acceleration can sometimes cause compatibility issues leading to crashes. Disabling it can stabilize playback.

1. Open Windows Media Player.
2. Press Alt on your keyboard to reveal the menu bar.
3. Click Tools and select Options.
4. Go to the Performance tab.
5. Under Video acceleration, move the slider to None.
6. Click Apply and then OK.
7. Restart Windows Media Player and test the playback.

Disabling hardware acceleration helps if your graphics driver has compatibility issues with the player.

Step 5: Repair or Reset Windows Media Player

If the above steps don’t work, repairing or resetting the player might help. Windows lets you turn off and on Windows Media Player to fix deeper problems.

1. Open Settings and go to Apps > Optional Features.
2. Scroll down and click on More Windows features.
3. In the new window, find Media Features and expand it.
4. Uncheck Windows Media Player and click OK.
5. Restart your computer.
6. After restart, go back and check Windows Media Player to reinstall it.
7. Restart again and test the player.

This process reinstalls Windows Media Player, fixing corrupted installations or missing files.

Alternative Method: Use System File Checker (SFC)

Corrupted system files can cause Windows Media Player to crash. Running the System File Checker tool scans and repairs these files.

1. Press Windows + S, type cmd, right-click Command Prompt, and select Run as administrator.
2. In the command window, type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
3. Wait for the scan to complete. It will automatically fix problems if found.
4. Restart your computer and try Windows Media Player again.

This method is useful if crashes relate to corrupted Windows files affecting media playback.

FAQs

Why does Windows Media Player keep crashing?

Crashes can happen due to corrupted media files, outdated software, hardware conflicts, or corrupted cache and system files.

Can third-party codecs cause crashes?

Yes, incompatible or outdated codecs can cause conflicts. Try uninstalling recently added codecs or use default codecs provided by Windows.

Is it safe to delete Windows Media Player cache files?

Yes, deleting cache files helps fix corrupted data without affecting your media files. The player rebuilds the database automatically.

Will reinstalling Windows Media Player delete my media library?

No, your media files remain intact. However, the player’s database and settings reset, so you may need to re-add media folders.

What if Windows Media Player crashes only with certain files?

Those files might be corrupted or unsupported. Try converting them to a supported format or use a different media player.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all steps above and Windows Media Player still crashes, consider these final options:

• Use an alternative media player like VLC or Media Player Classic, which support more file types and are robust.
• Contact Microsoft Support for personalized troubleshooting: Microsoft Media Player Support.
• Perform a Windows 11 system restore to a point before the crashes started, if applicable.
• Consider resetting or reinstalling Windows 11 as a last resort to fix deep system issues.

Conclusion

Windows Media Player crashes can be frustrating, but most problems can be fixed with simple troubleshooting steps. Start by running the troubleshooter and clearing the cache, then update your system and adjust settings like hardware acceleration.

If needed, repair or reinstall the player and check system files using SFC. Remember to verify your media files and keep your software updated to avoid future issues.

Following this guide should help you restore a smooth and stable media playback experience on Windows 11.