.WMV file extension
To open .WMV files on Windows, right-click the .WMV file and choose Open with.
.WMV files are video files that can be opened with media players like Windows Media Player or VLC. Use a compatible app to open them.
Last updated: March 19, 2026 · Reviewed by Julian Stricker
Open on your device
Choose your operating system for a dedicated step-by-step opening guide.
How to open .WMV files
Use these platform-specific instructions to open .WMV files safely.
Windows
- Right-click the .WMV file and choose Open with.
- Select Windows Media Player or another compatible app.
Mac
- Control-click the .WMV file and choose Open With.
- Select VLC Media Player or another compatible app.
Linux
- Right-click the .WMV file and choose Open With.
- Select VLC Media Player or another compatible app.
iOS
- Tap the .WMV file in Files and choose Share.
- Open with VLC for Mobile or another compatible app.
Android
- Tap the .WMV file in Files or Downloads.
- Open with VLC for Android or another compatible app.
Security notes
- Open .WMV files only from trusted sources.
- Ensure your media player is up to date to avoid vulnerabilities.
- Scan files with antivirus software before opening.
Recommended antivirus software
Scan files before opening them. These antivirus tools help protect against malware and viruses.
Avast offers free and premium antivirus software that protects against viruses, malware, ransomware, and phishing. Scan files before opening them to ensure safety.
NortonNorton 360 delivers comprehensive antivirus protection, VPN, and identity theft monitoring. Scan files for threats before opening to keep your device secure.
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Can't open this file?
These are the most common causes and fixes when .WMV files fail to open.
Common reasons
- Cannot open .WMV file
- Poor video quality
Fix steps
- Install a compatible media player like VLC.
- Check the file integrity and download it again if necessary.
OS-specific troubleshooting
Convert .WMV to other formats
Use conversion tools to change .WMV files into formats your software supports.
- .WMV → .3G2
- .WMV → .3G2
- .WMV → .3GP
- .WMV → .3GP
- .WMV → .AAC
- .WMV → .ASF
- .WMV → .ASF
- .WMV → .AVI
- .WMV → .AVI
- .WMV → .AVI
- .WMV → .DAT
- .WMV → .DAV
- .WMV → .DIVX
- .WMV → .DV
- .WMV → .DVRMS
- .WMV → .F4V
- .WMV → .FLAC
- .WMV → .FLV
- .WMV → .FLV
- .WMV → .M2T
- .WMV → .M2TS
- .WMV → .M2TS
- .WMV → .M4A
- .WMV → .M4V
- .WMV → .M4V
- .WMV → .M4V
- .WMV → .MKV
- .WMV → .MKV
- .WMV → .MKV
- .WMV → .MOD
- .WMV → .MOV
- .WMV → .MOV
- .WMV → .MOV
- .WMV → .MP3
- .WMV → .MP4
- .WMV → .MP4
- .WMV → .MP4
- .WMV → .MPEG
- .WMV → .MPEG
- .WMV → .MPG
- .WMV → .MPG
- .WMV → .MTS
- .WMV → .MXF
- .WMV → .MXF
- .WMV → .OGG
- .WMV → .OGV
- .WMV → .OGV
- .WMV → .RM
- .WMV → .RMVB
- .WMV → .SWF
- .WMV → .SWF
- .WMV → .TOD
- .WMV → .TP
- .WMV → .TRP
- .WMV → .TS
- .WMV → .VOB
- .WMV → .VOB
- .WMV → .VRO
- .WMV → .WAV
- .WMV → .WEBM
- .WMV → .WEBM
- .WMV → .WEBM
- .WMV → .WMA
- .WMV → .WTV
- .WMV → .XVID
What is a .WMV file?
.WMV, or Windows Media Video, is a video file format developed by Microsoft. It is designed for streaming applications and storing video content on Windows platforms.
Background
.WMV files were introduced by Microsoft as part of their Windows Media framework. They are optimized for streaming video content over the internet and are commonly used for online video distribution. The format is known for its efficient compression, which allows for smaller file sizes without significant loss of quality, making it ideal for web use. WMV files can be played on various platforms using compatible software, although they are primarily associated with Windows environments. Over the years, the format has been supported by many media players and video editing software, ensuring broad compatibility and ease of use. Despite newer formats emerging, WMV remains a popular choice for video distribution, particularly in Windows-based systems.
Common MIME types: video/x-ms-wmv
Further reading
Authoritative resources for more details on the .WMV format.
Common .WMV issues
Cannot open .WMV file
The file may not open if the necessary software is not installed or the file is corrupted.
- Install a compatible media player like VLC.
- Check the file integrity and download it again if necessary.
Poor video quality
The video quality may be poor due to high compression.
- Try playing the file in a different media player.
- Check for a higher quality version of the video.
FAQ
Can I convert a .WMV file to another format?
Yes, use a video conversion tool like HandBrake or an online converter.
Why is the audio not playing in my .WMV file?
Ensure your media player supports the audio codec used in the file.
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