When we say codec it is the term for software that is used to compress or decompress a digital media file like audio and video. Most of the digital media maker uses codecs to compress a file. The lesser the capacity of a file, the lesser storage it will get from your computer and it can be easily transferred across the Internet. This is the reason why most of the downloaded media file asked for codecs.

Codec can have two components - an encoder and decoder. The encoder is used to compress a file that is currently being created, while decoder decompresses the file so it can be played on your media player. But there are some codecs which includes both components.

In case your computer will be sending a message that asked for codec, it is telling you that the file that you are trying to play requires a coded that is not installed in your computer. If the required codec is available, the player will automatically install it and plays the file. If it is not available and you are currently connected to the internet, the pop-up error message will offer a Web Help option for you to choose from. This option when clicked will give you more information. The ACELP.net for audio and DivX for video are sample codecs that are not included in the default setting of media player.

To find the right codec for your file, you can go to WMPlugins.com. This site provides a list of codecs that you can use for your player. But you must be careful in installing codecs that are not listed on this site to avoid incompatibilities, worst is that it can corrupt your system. It is highly recommended that users will install codecs from trusted websites, better the official website of your media player.

Most codecs differs on sound or video quality, size, and even compatibility. Windows Media Audio or WMA and Windows Media Video or WMV both used codecs that are flexible to the needs of the media makers and even users.

So, if you will be asking for the question of what is the right codec to download and install in your computer, let me tell you that there is no single answer for this question. Instead there is an offer for the easiest option that is to download codec packs. Codec packs refer to the collections of codecs gathered in a single but large file. This option is only advisable for beginners since the file is too big. Here are the recommendable codec packs:

1. XP Codec pack - it is one of the most code packs that is commonly used to play all major audio and video formats.

2. K-Lite Mega Codec Pack - is a collection of audio and video components for Microsoft Windows. It enables the operating system and its software to playback various audio and video formats that is not supported by the operating system.

3. K-Lite Codec Pack - one of the users friendly and well tested codec pack. It is a collection of codecs and DirectShow filters. It is advisable for beginner and expert users.

If you want to know more about codecs, please visit the official web site of your media player.