Windows Movie Files or WMV is a data compression format created by Microsoft. In simple terms, this means that Microsoft owns the software that is used to encode video, and until recently did not allow Linux computers to read this code. However, Microsoft has now opened up access to WMV, making it much easier to open this format. If you want to play WMV files on Ubuntu OS, you'll have to install Ubuntu Restricted Extras as well as a media player like VLC. These programs are fairly easy to install and are all free.
Steps
Step 1. Download and install VLC media player
This free and open source media player supports almost every possible format. On many modern computers, you can easily play WMV files right in the VLC player, so this is the only step you have to take. To download VLC, you need:
- Download the app directly from the Ubuntu Store by following this link.
- Start Terminal and enter "sudo apt-get install vlc" (without quotes). Enter your account password when asked to start installing the program.
Step 2. Unlock the "Restricted Extras" package to allow the player to play WMV files
If the player does not play files, then you need to install the Ubuntu codec on your computer. Be aware that they have limited access for a reason. Due to continuing restrictions on the part of Microsoft, it is illegal to reproduce certain types of files. For 99.9% of people this will not be a problem, but in theory it could be for businesses. If you are looking for a completely legal way, then you need to do the following:
You can purchase codecs from Fluendo. This is a European company with fully legal licenses
Step 3. Launch Terminal or another emulator
Terminal is a standard black and white window where you can enter a code to control your computer. Usually it is called "Terminal", but you may have another program that performs the same function.
Step 4. Enter the code "sudo apt-get install ubuntu-restricted-extras" into the Terminal and press Enter
Note: you do not need to enter quotes, only words. When done, hit Enter.
Step 5. When asked, enter your password and press Enter again
You must enter an account administrator password or a computer password. If you do not have a password, enter the word "password" (without quotes) or leave it blank.
Remember that the password will not be displayed as "******", so if you are not careful, everyone will see your password
Step 6. Follow the installation instructions to download the "Restricted Extras" codec pack
With these codecs, you can now play WMV files. The installation will start immediately.
Step 7. Play WMV file in VLC player
By installing the codecs, you can play WMV files. You can also use other media players to play files, such as Ubuntu's Totem player. However, VLC is a free and open source program that regularly updates its codecs, including those that Ubuntu does not support, such as for the WMV format.