If you've ever wondered how to open files in VLCyou've come to the right place.
VLC is such a versatile program that sometimes the number of options it offers is overwhelming.
But don't worry, here you will learn in a clear, practical way and with examples so that you can never have problems playing back your files again..
What is VLC and why should you use it? 🖥️
VLC, also known as VLC Media Playeris a free and open source player that can handle almost any type of video or audio file.
Unlike other players, you don't need to install additional codecs to make it work.
In addition, it is available in Windows, macOS, Linux, Android and iOSThis makes it a universal tool.
Your simple but powerful interface has made it one of the most downloaded programs in the world.
Basic ways to open files in VLC 📂
There are several ways to open files in this player, and the best thing is that you can choose the one that is most convenient for you.
Method 1: Drag & Drop
One of the quickest ways is to simply drag the file from the folder on your computer to the VLC window.
Automatically, the video or audio will start playing.
It is so simple that it becomes the favorite choice of many users.
Method 2: "Medium" menu
Click on the tab "Medium" in the upper left part of the program and select "Open file".
Then, browse your folders for the file you want to play and you're done.
This method is perfect if you want to make sure you choose the right file.
Method 3: Keyboard shortcuts
If you prefer shortcuts, simply press Ctrl + O in Windows o Cmd + O on Mac to open the file selection window directly.
This way, in seconds you will have your content on screen.
Open whole folders in VLC 📁
Do you have a series of chapters in the same folder and want to watch them without interruptions?
VLC allows you to open complete folders to play the files one after the other.
You only need to go to the menu "Medium > Open folder" and select the directory of your choice.
In this way, VLC will organize the files and play them in order.
Open external drives and devices in VLC 💿
Another advantage of VLC is that it is not limited to digital files.
You can open CDs, DVDs and even Blu-ray discsprovided that they do not have protection restrictions.
Go to "Medium > Open disk" and choose the type of support.
If you connect a USB or external hard diskwill also appear as an option to play your content.
Opening files from a URL 🌐
Did you know that VLC can also play files directly from the Internet?
With the option "Medium > Open network location"You can paste a link to a streaming video or a live broadcast.
This is very useful for viewing online content without using the browser.
A classic example is playing streaming radio stations directly in VLC.
Playing playlists in VLC 🎶 Playing playlists in VLC 🎶 Playing playlists in VLC
If you're a music lover, VLC also allows you to load playlists in formats such as M3U or PLS.
With this, you can enjoy hours of music without having to open track by track.
Just go to "Medium > Open file" and select the list.
File Compatibility in VLC 📀
One of the greatest strengths of VLC is its support for multiple formats.
Some of the most popular include:
- MP4, AVI, MKV, MOV, FLV, WMV for video.
- MP3, FLAC, WAV, OGG, AAC for audio.
- Subtitles in formats such as SRT, SUB or ASS.
In practice, it is rare to encounter a file that VLC cannot open.
Tips for faster file opening ⚡
If you want to save time, you can set up VLC as your default player.
Thus, every time you double-click on a video or audio file, it will open directly in VLC without any additional steps.
On Windows, just right-click on the file, choose "Open with > Choose another application" and check the forever option.
On macOS, you can do this from the "Obtain information" of the archive.
Extra tricks when opening files in VLC 🛠️
When you open a file, you can take advantage of additional features that make VLC a gem:
- Adjust subtitles if they are not synchronized.
- Change audio track in multilingual films.
- Play at different speeds to study videos or listen to podcasts.
- Open several files at the same time in different windows (in systems that allow it).
These small details make VLC much more than just a player.
What to do if VLC does not open a file? ❌
Although VLC is very complete, it can sometimes crash.
If a file does not open, the first thing to do is to check if it is damaged.
Another option is upgrade VLC to the latest versionas each update adds support for new formats.
You can also try other playersalthough in most cases VLC is still the best choice.
Conclusion
Now you know how to open files in VLC in different ways and take advantage of all your options.
From simple drag-and-drop to playing discs, folders or Internet links, VLC gives you total freedom.
If you don't have it installed yet, you can download it for free from its official website: https://www.videolan.org/vlc/.
In short, with VLC you will never again have to worry about the compatibility of your files.