Believe it or not, you cannot watch DVDs in Windows 8 supported computers. That is, out of the box. For some reason, the Windows 8 engineers thought it would be a good idea to omit this function. Okay, the real reason is that Windows Media Center has been removed, most likely to prevent unfair competition or monopolistic alliances between software companies.
Essentially, that means you, as a consumer, should be given the right to choose your own DVD software player. In effect, it gives you one more reason why to possibly hate Windows 8.
Keep in mind that Windows Media Player is included with your computer, but it does not include the DVD playback required to watch movies and videos.
Here’s how to watch DVDs in Windows 8:
- Install the Windows 8 DVD player download.
- Run the add-on software.
- Play your movie or video.
Alternate DVD players are VLC Media Player and GOM Media Player.


