You use VLC, MPC-HC, or other self-contained players that don’t rely on Windows Media Foundation.
The is a free optional download from Microsoft for Windows 10 N editions (where "N" stands for "Not with Media"). Due to European competition rules, Windows 10 N does not include certain media technologies—like Windows Media Player, music/video codecs, or related apps (Groove Music, Movies & TV).
Did this guide help you? Share it with other Windows 10 N users who are tired of "missing codec" errors. For more Windows troubleshooting, bookmark our Windows Update hub.
[Current Month, Year] Compatible with: Windows 10 22H2 (N & KN editions only) media feature pack for windows 10 n 22h2 new
Click the link located under the main heading. Click the Add a feature button (indicated by a plus sign). Type Media Feature Pack into the search bar. Check the box next to the result and click Install . Wait for the installation progress bar to finish. Restart your computer to apply the system-level changes. Verification and Troubleshooting Confirming the Installation
The "N" editions of Windows were developed to comply with a 2004 European Commission ruling. They include the same functionality as standard editions but exclude certain media-related technologies, primarily designed to promote competition among media player solutions. These versions are typically marketed in Europe.
These components restore compatibility for software that expects the standard Windows media stack—web browsers, streaming apps, communication apps, media players, and productivity tools that embed audio/video. You use VLC, MPC-HC, or other self-contained players
Smartphones, digital cameras, and portable media players cannot sync or transfer files over USB because the Media Transfer Protocol (MTP) driver is missing.
Without this pack, many applications and websites will not function correctly. Common issues include:
The installation is straightforward (provided you follow our troubleshooting guide), the pack is stable, and it solves all major media playback and recording issues. Microsoft has clearly improved compatibility with modern codecs like HEVC and VP9, making this a worthwhile update. Did this guide help you
After rebooting, the change was invisible but total:
Before diving into the pack , we must address the N .