A "Codec" is a set of code libraries that allow media players installed on your computer to interpret various different types of media formats. These formats may include AVI files, MPEG files and MP4 files, among others. Codec files typically come packaged in installer files, and many are bundled with other codecs to form a "Codec Pack." Whether they come in a pack or as a single file, codecs are installed on your computer in the same way.
Instructions
Installing Codecs from an Installer Package
1. Launch your preferred web browser, navigate to the download page for the desired codec, and download the codec onto your hard drive.
2. Launch the installer file once it has finished downloading.
3. Follow the instructions in the installer window as they appear. If you are installing a single codec, you will typically only need to click "Next" a few times. If you are installing several codecs at once, you will be asked to specify which codecs you want installed, as well as if you want to install any extra software that may be bundled with the codec pack.
Installing Individual Codecs Without an Installer Package
4. Locate the Codec you wish to install. Typically these will be files with a .AX extension, and will be located either in C:\Windows\System32 or somewhere in your Program Files folder.
5. Open the Start menu and type "CMD" into the Windows Live Search box, then press "Enter." This will bring up the Command Prompt window.
6. Type "regsvr32.exe "X:\XYZ\Filename.Extension," replacing "X" with the drive letter, "XYZ" with the path of the folder containing the Codec file, and "Filename.Extension" with the name and extension of the codec file.
7. Press "Enter." Windows will register and install the Codec file automatically.
