Do you still have a stack of DVDs lying around but no idea how to play them on your shiny new Windows 11 laptop? You’re not alone. While DVDs might feel a little “old school” in the age of Netflix and Disney+, many people still have movies, shows, or even important data stored on discs.
But here’s the catch: Windows 11, just like Windows 10, doesn’t come with built-in DVD playback support. That means if you pop in a DVD, nothing will happen unless you set things up first.
Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered. In this guide, I’ll walk you through step by step how to play DVDs on your Windows 11 laptop, whether it’s for watching movies or accessing files.
Why Windows 11 Doesn’t Play DVDs by Default
Microsoft removed native DVD playback starting with Windows 8. The reason? Streaming services became more popular, and fewer people used DVDs. As a result, Windows 11 doesn’t ship with a DVD codec.
So, while your laptop may have a DVD drive (or you can attach an external one), you’ll still need the right software or app to play discs.
Things You’ll Need Before Playing DVDs
Before diving in, make sure you have the following:
A DVD Drive
Many modern laptops no longer come with built-in drives. If yours doesn’t, you’ll need an external USB DVD drive.
A DVD Disc
Could be a movie DVD, a series, or a data disc.
Playback Software
Windows Media Player in Windows 11 doesn’t support DVDs. You’ll need apps like VLC Media Player or Microsoft’s Windows DVD Player.
Step 1: Check If Your Laptop Has a DVD Drive
Look on the side of your laptop for a rectangular slot with an eject button.
If there isn’t one, don’t panic—buy an external DVD drive (they’re cheap and plug into USB).
👉 Pro tip: Choose an external drive that supports both DVDs and CDs, so you’re future-proofed.
Step 2: Insert the DVD into the Drive
Push the eject button on your laptop or external drive.
Place the DVD shiny side down.
Close the tray gently.
Your system should recognize the disc, but it won’t play automatically without software.
Step 3: Download a DVD Player App
Here are your best options:
Option 1: VLC Media Player (Free & Best Choice)
Go to the VLC website.
Download and install VLC.
Open VLC → Media → Open Disc → Choose your DVD.
Hit Play, and your movie starts rolling.
👉 Why VLC? It’s free, lightweight, and supports almost any video format—including DVDs.
Option 2: Windows DVD Player (Paid)
Available in the Microsoft Store for around $15.
Install → Insert your DVD → It will auto-detect.
👉 Downside: It costs money, while VLC does the same thing for free.
Option 3: Other Third-Party Players
KMPlayer
PotPlayer
GOM Player
These also support DVD playback, but VLC is the most reliable.
Step 4: Set DVD Player as Default (Optional)
If you don’t want to open VLC every time manually:
Insert a DVD.
Right-click the disc icon → Open With → Choose Default App.
Select VLC or your chosen app.
Now, DVDs will auto-play with your favorite player.
Step 5: Troubleshooting DVD Playback Issues
Sometimes, DVDs don’t play smoothly. Here’s what to do:
Problem 1: DVD Not Detected
Make sure your external DVD drive is connected.
Try another USB port.
Test the DVD on another device (it may be scratched).
Problem 2: Region Code Error
Some DVDs are locked by region.
VLC bypasses most region restrictions, so use it instead of Windows DVD Player.
Problem 3: No Sound
Check your laptop’s volume.
In VLC, go to Audio → Audio Track and pick the right one.
Alternative Ways to Watch DVDs in Windows 11
1. Rip the DVD to Digital Format
Use software like HandBrake or MakeMKV.
Convert your DVD into a digital file (MP4, MKV).
Store it on your laptop and play anytime without needing the disc.
2. Use Streaming Services Instead
If your movie or series is available online, consider streaming—it’s easier and faster.
3. External Blu-ray/DVD Players
If you want high-quality playback, get an external Blu-ray drive (supports DVDs too).
Tips for the Best DVD Playback Experience
Use headphones or speakers for better sound.
Clean your DVDs with a soft cloth to avoid playback issues.
Keep your external DVD drive drivers updated.
Store discs properly to prevent scratches.
Common Myths About DVDs on Windows 11
Myth 1: You Can’t Play DVDs Without Buying Software
False! VLC is free and works perfectly.
Myth 2: External DVD Drives Don’t Work with Windows 11
Wrong. Any modern USB drive is plug-and-play.
Myth 3: DVDs Are Dead
Not quite! Many people still use DVDs for collections, backups, and personal media.
When Should You Switch from DVDs to Digital Files?
If you travel a lot and don’t want to carry discs.
If your collection is huge and you’re running out of space.
If you want faster, more convenient playback.
But for nostalgia or special collections, DVDs still have their charm.
Final Thoughts
Playing DVDs on a Windows 11 laptop might seem tricky at first, but once you know the steps, it’s a breeze. All you really need is a DVD drive and a media player like VLC. From there, it’s as simple as inserting the disc and hitting play.
So whether you’re reliving old memories, enjoying your favorite movie collection, or accessing important data, DVDs are far from obsolete—you just need the right tools.
FAQs
1. Can Windows Media Player play DVDs in Windows 11?
No, the default Windows Media Player does not support DVD playback. Use VLC or Windows DVD Player instead.
2. Do I need an external DVD drive for my laptop?
Yes, if your laptop doesn’t have a built-in DVD drive, you’ll need an external one.
3. Is VLC Media Player safe to use?
Absolutely. VLC is a trusted, open-source app used worldwide.
4. Can I copy a DVD onto my laptop?
Yes, using ripping tools like HandBrake, you can convert DVDs into MP4 or MKV files.
5. Why does my DVD show a region error?
Some DVDs are locked by region. VLC usually bypasses these restrictions.