How to Play a DVD Movie on Your Computer

The quality of DVD playback, the convenient size of the disc and the extra features such as random access to any point in the movie, has made DVDs extremely popular worldwide. DVD players hooked to the television are not the only option for playing DVDs. Your computer can also play DVDs if it has a DVD drive and appropriate software installed. Here's how you can play a DVD movie on your computer.

Instructions

1. Check the compatibility of your drive with the DVD. You must have a drive that supports the DVD format. If not, then get a DVD drive installed on your computer.

2. Insert the DVD in the drive. A menu will appear on your desktop asking to play the DVD video using media player or other players. Click the option available. If you get a message 'format not supported,' you may need to download and install a DVD decoder.

3. Surf online to get a decoder, if necessary. Google or Yahoo search engines will help. Download and install a compatible DVD decoder. For Windows, software like PowerDVD or WinDVD can be used. If you use a Mac OS X, then VLC media player/Videolan is adequate for the task.

4. Select the full screen option once the movie starts playing. Learn keys and shortcuts to enhance your DVD viewing experience.

5. Adjust the brightness, color and contrast as per your requirement.

6. Check all the settings and new options in order to have a perfect picture.

7. Scroll and explore the menu by right-clicking on the DVD screen.

8. Fine-tune the volume by clicking on the speaker icon from the task bar on your desktop.

Tips & Warnings

• Install anti-virus in your machine prior to inserting any disc.

• If you plan to get a new DVD drive, buy a DVD/CD RW combo drive. These are reasonably priced and provide you with the added functionality of burning CDs.

• Avoid playing pirated DVDs. These may not play on your computer system, and even if they do, such DVDs run the risk of damaging your DVD drive.