Playing a DVD on Windows 10 is easier than you might think. Although Windows 10 doesn’t come with a built-in DVD player, you can use a third-party application like VLC Media Player to watch your favorite films. Here’s a quick guide to get you started: download and install VLC Media Player, insert your DVD, open VLC, and select the DVD option from the menu. Once you’ve done that, your movie should start playing automatically.
How to Play DVD on Windows 10
In this section, we’ll walk you through the steps you need to follow to play a DVD on your Windows 10 computer.
Step 1: Download VLC Media Player
Head to the official VideoLAN website and download VLC Media Player.
VLC is a free and popular media player that supports DVDs. Go to videolan.org, find the download button, and click it. Once downloaded, open the installation file and follow the prompts.
Step 2: Install VLC Media Player
Follow the installation instructions to install VLC Media Player on your computer.
After downloading VLC, you’ll need to install it. The installation process is straightforward; just follow the on-screen instructions. Make sure to agree to the terms and conditions when prompted.
Step 3: Insert Your DVD
Place your DVD into your computer’s DVD drive.
Once you have VLC installed, insert the DVD you want to watch into your computer’s DVD drive. Make sure your computer recognizes the DVD.
Step 4: Open VLC Media Player
Launch the VLC Media Player application.
Find the VLC icon on your desktop or in your Start menu and open it. VLC will be your main tool for playing DVDs.
Step 5: Select the DVD Option
In VLC, go to the Media menu and choose "Open Disc."
In VLC, there is a menu at the top. Click on "Media," then select "Open Disc" from the dropdown. A new window will appear where you can select "DVD."
Step 6: Press Play
Click the play button, and your DVD will start playing.
After selecting "DVD," click "Play." Your movie should start playing immediately, and you can enjoy your DVD on your Windows 10 machine.
After completing these steps, your DVD should be playing smoothly on your computer. If everything went according to plan, you’re now ready to sit back, relax, and watch your movie without any hitches.
Tips for Playing DVD on Windows 10
- Always check if your DVD drive is functioning correctly before attempting to play a DVD.
- Ensure VLC Media Player is up-to-date for the best performance and compatibility.
- Consider adjusting VLC’s video and audio settings for an optimal viewing experience.
- Keep your DVDs clean and scratch-free to avoid playback issues.
- Use headphones or external speakers for better sound quality.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is VLC Media Player free to use?
Yes, VLC Media Player is completely free and open-source, which means you won’t have to pay anything to use it.
Can I use another media player besides VLC?
Yes, there are other media players available, but VLC is one of the most reliable and popular choices for playing DVDs on Windows 10.
My DVD isn’t playing, what should I do?
First, ensure your DVD drive is working and the disc is clean. If it still doesn’t play, check VLC settings or consider trying another media player.
Does Windows 10 have a built-in DVD player?
No, Windows 10 doesn’t come with a built-in DVD player. You’ll need to download a third-party application like VLC Media Player.
Can VLC Media Player play Blu-ray discs as well?
Yes, VLC can play Blu-ray discs with some additional steps, although it might require additional software or libraries.
Summary
- Download VLC Media Player.
- Install VLC Media Player.
- Insert Your DVD.
- Open VLC Media Player.
- Select the DVD Option.
- Press Play.
Conclusion
Now you’re all set to enjoy your DVD collection on Windows 10. While it might seem a bit daunting at first, using VLC Media Player makes the process straightforward and accessible, even for tech beginners. Remember, technology is like a tool in your toolbox—knowing how to use it gives you the power to accomplish tasks that might seem challenging at first.
Getting your DVDs to play is just a few clicks away, thanks to VLC Media Player. It’s a powerful tool not just for DVDs but for playing a variety of media formats. If you’re into exploring more about media players, there are plenty of online resources and communities that can guide you further.
In the age of streaming, having a trusty DVD player is still valuable for those cherished classics that haven’t made it to digital platforms yet. So go ahead and dive into your DVD collection with confidence. If you found this guide helpful, consider sharing it with friends who might be in the same boat. Happy watching!

Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.