Windows Media Player Firefox Plugin by Microsoft [Explained]

Photo of author

Written by: Stelian Pilici

Published on:

Windows Media Player Firefox Plugin is a browser extension developed by Microsoft that allows users to play Windows Media files directly within the Firefox web browser. It provides seamless integration between Firefox and Windows Media Player, enabling users to enjoy multimedia content without the need to switch to a separate media player.

Uninstall Apps

What Does the Windows Media Player Firefox Plugin Do?

The Windows Media Player Firefox Plugin enables Firefox to handle various media formats, including audio and video files, that are typically associated with Windows Media Player. It allows users to stream media content directly from websites, play embedded media files, and even download media files for offline playback.

With this plugin, users can enjoy a wide range of multimedia content, such as music, videos, and live streams, without the need to switch to a separate media player. It provides a convenient and integrated experience for Firefox users who frequently encounter Windows Media files while browsing the web.

How to Install the Windows Media Player Firefox Plugin

Installing the Windows Media Player Firefox Plugin is a straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

  1. Open the Firefox web browser on your computer.
  2. Go to the official Microsoft website or the Firefox Add-ons website.
  3. Search for “Windows Media Player Firefox Plugin.”
  4. Click on the download link or the “Add to Firefox” button.
  5. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.
  6. Restart Firefox to activate the plugin.

Once installed, the Windows Media Player Firefox Plugin should be ready to use. You can test it by visiting websites that contain Windows Media files and see if the plugin automatically handles the playback.

Should I Uninstall the Windows Media Player Firefox Plugin?

Whether or not you should uninstall the Windows Media Player Firefox Plugin depends on your personal preferences and usage patterns. Here are a few factors to consider:

1. Compatibility and Performance

If you frequently encounter Windows Media files while browsing the web and prefer to use Firefox as your primary browser, keeping the Windows Media Player Firefox Plugin installed can enhance your browsing experience. It ensures seamless playback of multimedia content without the need to switch to a separate media player.

However, if you rarely encounter Windows Media files or prefer to use a different media player, uninstalling the plugin may improve the overall performance and compatibility of your Firefox browser. Removing unnecessary plugins can help reduce memory usage and prevent potential conflicts with other extensions or plugins.

2. Security and Vulnerabilities

Like any browser extension or plugin, the Windows Media Player Firefox Plugin may have security vulnerabilities that could potentially be exploited by malicious actors. While Microsoft regularly releases updates and patches to address these vulnerabilities, it’s essential to stay vigilant and keep your software up to date.

If you’re concerned about security risks or prefer to minimize the number of plugins installed on your browser, uninstalling the Windows Media Player Firefox Plugin can be a proactive measure. However, it’s crucial to ensure that you have an alternative media player or plugin that can handle Windows Media files if needed.

3. User Experience and Preferences

Ultimately, the decision to uninstall the Windows Media Player Firefox Plugin depends on your personal preferences and user experience. If you find the plugin useful and enjoy the convenience of playing Windows Media files directly within Firefox, there may be no need to remove it.

On the other hand, if you rarely use Windows Media files or prefer a different media player, uninstalling the plugin can help streamline your browsing experience and reduce clutter in your browser.

How to Uninstall the Windows Media Player Firefox Plugin

If you’ve decided to uninstall the Windows Media Player Firefox Plugin, here’s how you can do it:

  1. Open the Firefox web browser on your computer.
  2. Click on the menu button (three horizontal lines) in the top-right corner of the browser window.
  3. Select “Add-ons” from the dropdown menu.
  4. In the Add-ons Manager tab, click on the “Plugins” section on the left sidebar.
  5. Scroll down and locate the “Windows Media Player” plugin.
  6. Click on the “Disable” or “Remove” button next to the plugin.
  7. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the uninstallation process.
  8. Restart Firefox to apply the changes.

After following these steps, the Windows Media Player Firefox Plugin should be successfully uninstalled from your browser.

Conclusion

The Windows Media Player Firefox Plugin by Microsoft offers a convenient way to play Windows Media files directly within the Firefox web browser. It enhances the browsing experience for users who frequently encounter multimedia content while browsing the web.

Whether or not you should uninstall the plugin depends on your personal preferences, compatibility, performance, security concerns, and user experience. Consider the factors discussed in this article to make an informed decision.

If you decide to uninstall the Windows Media Player Firefox Plugin, make sure you have an alternative media player or plugin that can handle Windows Media files if needed. Additionally, regularly scanning your computer for malware using Malwarebytes Free is recommended to ensure the security of your system.

Ultimately, the choice is yours, and it’s important to prioritize your preferences and needs when deciding whether to keep or uninstall the Windows Media Player Firefox Plugin.

How to Stay Safe Online

Here are 10 basic security tips to help you avoid malware and protect your device:

  1. Use a good antivirus and keep it up-to-date.

    Shield Guide

    It's essential to use a good quality antivirus and keep it up-to-date to stay ahead of the latest cyber threats. We are huge fans of Malwarebytes Premium and use it on all of our devices, including Windows and Mac computers as well as our mobile devices. Malwarebytes sits beside your traditional antivirus, filling in any gaps in its defenses, and providing extra protection against sneakier security threats.

  2. Keep software and operating systems up-to-date.

    updates-guide

    Keep your operating system and apps up to date. Whenever an update is released for your device, download and install it right away. These updates often include security fixes, vulnerability patches, and other necessary maintenance.

  3. Be careful when installing programs and apps.

    install guide

    Pay close attention to installation screens and license agreements when installing software. Custom or advanced installation options will often disclose any third-party software that is also being installed. Take great care in every stage of the process and make sure you know what it is you're agreeing to before you click "Next."

  4. Install an ad blocker.

    Ad Blocker

    Use a browser-based content blocker, like AdGuard. Content blockers help stop malicious ads, Trojans, phishing, and other undesirable content that an antivirus product alone may not stop.

  5. Be careful what you download.

    Trojan Horse

    A top goal of cybercriminals is to trick you into downloading malware—programs or apps that carry malware or try to steal information. This malware can be disguised as an app: anything from a popular game to something that checks traffic or the weather.

  6. Be alert for people trying to trick you.

    warning sign

    Whether it's your email, phone, messenger, or other applications, always be alert and on guard for someone trying to trick you into clicking on links or replying to messages. Remember that it's easy to spoof phone numbers, so a familiar name or number doesn't make messages more trustworthy.

  7. Back up your data.

    backup sign

    Back up your data frequently and check that your backup data can be restored. You can do this manually on an external HDD/USB stick, or automatically using backup software. This is also the best way to counter ransomware. Never connect the backup drive to a computer if you suspect that the computer is infected with malware.

  8. Choose strong passwords.

    lock sign

    Use strong and unique passwords for each of your accounts. Avoid using personal information or easily guessable words in your passwords. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on your accounts whenever possible.

  9. Be careful where you click.

    cursor sign

    Be cautious when clicking on links or downloading attachments from unknown sources. These could potentially contain malware or phishing scams.

  10. Don't use pirated software.

    Shady Guide

    Avoid using Peer-to-Peer (P2P) file-sharing programs, keygens, cracks, and other pirated software that can often compromise your data, privacy, or both.

To avoid potential dangers on the internet, it's important to follow these 10 basic safety rules. By doing so, you can protect yourself from many of the unpleasant surprises that can arise when using the web.

Previous

CyberLink PowerDirector 10: Should I Remove It?

Next

Winamp by Nullsoft, Inc: Should I Remove It?