Codecs

Codecs are methods of data compression used to make video (and audio) files smaller and more manageable for computers.

In order to play back a video file, your computer must have the correct codec installed in the operating system to decode the video stream.

Important

The names of codecs and container formats can be confusing. Because many container formats have the same names as the codecs they use within the file, make sure to differentiate the container format or file type, for example .mov or .dv, from the codec used within it.

If you are not able to load a certain video file, the required codec is probably not installed on your computer. In this case, you can search the internet (e. g. the Microsoft or Apple web sites) for video codecs.