Windows Keeps Asking for MP4 Software Despite VLC Player Selection

Are you experiencing the frustrating issue of Windows repeatedly asking for MP4 software even though you have already selected VLC Player as your default media player? Don't worry, you're not alone. This common problem can be easily resolved by following a few simple steps.

Why does Windows keep asking for MP4 software?

Before we delve into the solution, let's understand why this issue occurs in the first place. When you try to play an MP4 file on your Windows computer, the operating system looks for a default media player to handle the file. If it cannot find one or if the default player is not compatible with MP4 files, Windows prompts you to choose a suitable software.

Step 1: Verify VLC Player as the default media player

The first thing you should do is confirm that VLC Player is indeed set as the default media player for MP4 files. To do this, follow these steps:

1. Right-click on the MP4 file you want to play.
2. Select "Open with" from the context menu.
3. Click on "Choose another app" if VLC Player is not listed.
4. Choose VLC Player from the list of available apps.
5. Check the box that says "Always use this app to open .mp4 files".
6. Click "OK" to save the changes.

Step 2: Clear file type associations

If VLC Player is already set as the default media player for MP4 files and you're still experiencing the issue, you may need to clear the file type associations. Here's how:

1. Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type "control" and press Enter to open the Control Panel.
3. Click on "Default Programs" and then choose "Set Associations".
4. Scroll down and find ".mp4" in the list of file types.
5. Select ".mp4" and click on "Change program".
6. Choose VLC Player from the list of available programs.
7. Click "OK" to save the changes.

Step 3: Update VLC Player

If the above steps didn't resolve the issue, it's possible that you're using an outdated version of VLC Player. Updating to the latest version can often fix compatibility problems. Follow these steps to update VLC Player:

1. Open VLC Player.
2. Click on "Help" in the menu bar.
3. Select "Check for Updates".
4. If a new version is available, follow the prompts to download and install it.

Conclusion

By following these simple steps, you should be able to resolve the issue of Windows repeatedly asking for MP4 software despite selecting VLC Player as your default media player. Remember to always keep your software up to date to ensure compatibility with the latest file formats.