You may get the message: "Sorry, but we have received the following error from Microsoft Windows Media Player. Please use it to help troubleshoot the problem that you are experiencing. Windows Media Player cannot connect to the server. The server name may not be correct, the server might not be available, or your proxy settings may not be correct" for several different reasons. After trying the first solution, check to see if you can play a video. If you are still getting an error message, continue using the suggested solutions until the problem is fixed.


To restart your computer:

Update Windows Media Player

If the Windows Media Player is not completely up to date, you may experience problems viewing videos.

1. Sign on or connect to your internet service provider as you normally would.
2. Double-click the Internet Explorer icon on the desktop.
Note: If there is no Internet Explorer icon, click Start, select All Programs or Programs, then click Internet Explorer.
3. Click the Tools menu, then click Windows Update.
Note: If this selection is missing go to windowsupdate.microsoft.com.
4. Follow the instructions to scan for and install any applicable updates. You may be asked to restart your computer.

Note: Windows Update is not a service that we support. If you run into any issues, we recommend that you contact the Windows Update support team.


Lower the video acceleration in Windows Media Player

Video acceleration allows hardware and software developers to speed up video processing routines. Some video content may need the video acceleration lowered in order to play properly.

1. Open Windows Media Player.
2. Click the Tools menu, then click Options....
Note: If the Tools menu is not visible, double-click the title bar to maximise the window.
3. Click the Performance tab.
4. Under the Video Acceleration section, drag the slider bar to the middle.
5. Click OK.
Note: If this does not resolve the issue, try setting the Video Acceleration to None by dragging the slider bar to the extreme left.



Install computer updates or update video driver

- Install all applicable drivers, firmware, or software updates for your computer. If you are unsure of how to do this, please contact your computer manufacturer for help.
- Update your video driver. If you are unsure how to do this, please contact your computer manufacturer for help.