How to Use Microsoft Media Player

Microsoft Media Player, or Windows Media Player, is a service on Windows operating systems that allows you to open video, music and picture files in one location. Media files can be shared throughout the network from Windows Media Player to other computers, users or devices, such as the Xbox.

• 1

  Add media to Windows Media Player by adding files to "My Music," "My Video" and "My Picture" folders. The media located in these folders are automatically added to Windows Media Player. Older versions may require you add files by clicking "File" followed by "Add Folder to Library" from the top tool bar. Select the location of your files and select "Add."

• 2

  Open files by clicking "Music," "Videos" or "Photos" from the left menu bar. Files are organized by title, artist or album. They are also organized by the type of file.

• 3

  Click the name of the file to view or listen to it. Use the bottom tool bar to play the file.

• 4

  Organize your files into a playlist for easy access. Click "Create Playlist" from the menu bar and name the playlist. Drag files from the library into the playlist. To access the playlist in the future, choose the name under "Playlists."

• 5

  Connect all devices to your home network you wish to share media with (such as your Xbox, other computers, etc.) On the original device (such as your main home computer), launch Windows Media Player. Choose the "Library" tab followed by "Media Sharing." Select "Share my Media" and pick the devices you want to share your media with. Next, choose "Allow" and save the changes. Any selected device can now access the files on your main computer through Windows Media Player.