Codec is short for 'coder/decoder'. It's a small program that compresses a video or audio source (a process known as 'encoding') and then decompresses it during playback. Your media player (Windows Media Player, Real Player, etc.) will automatically select the proper codec to use when playing back a compressed media file (.mp3, .mpg, etc.). If you don't have the proper codec installed, then the audio and/or video won't play back correctly.

got feedback? got feedback?

Any feedback you provide is sent to the owner of this FAQ for possible incorporation and shown publically as well.

by RClarkofNC