WMA is an audio file format. Each WMA file stores audio track along with related metadata, such as track name, track number, author, music genre, etc. WMA files used Advanced System Format (ASF) encoding format, also use by WMV and ASF files. WMA files are typically smaller then other comparable formats. WMA is a popular music streaming format.
WMA format was created as a result of a patent conflict between the creator of MP3 format and Microsoft. Microsoft claimed for some time that WMA offers audio quality comparable to that of audio CD, yet many independent test proved the claim unsubstantiated. However, the test proved that the format offered slightly better audio quality than MP3 encoding.
Files with WMA extension, just like any other file formats, can be found on any operating system. The files in question may be transferred to other devices, be it mobile or stationary, yet not all systems may be capable of properly handling such files.
Updated: 07/22/2023
Problems with accessing WMA may be due to various reasons. On the bright side, the most encountered issues pertaining to Windows Media Audio Format files aren’t complex. In most cases they can be addressed swiftly and effectively without assistance from a specialist. The list below will guide you through the process of addressing the encountered problem.
Problems with opening and working with WMA files are most probably having to do with no proper software compatible with WMA files being present on your machine. This one is an easy one. Select Windows Media Player or one of the recommended programs (for example, Winamp, Mobile Media Converter, OverDrive Media Console Phone) and download it from appropriate source and install on your system. Above you will find a complete listing of programs that support WMA files, classified according to system platforms for which they are available. The safest method of downloading Windows Media Player installed is by going to developer’s website (Microsoft Corporation) and downloading the software using provided links.
You still cannot access WMA files although Windows Media Player is installed on your system? Make sure that the software is up to date. It may also happen that software creators by updating their applications add compatibility with other, newer file formats. If you have an older version of Windows Media Player installed, it may not support WMA format. The latest version of Windows Media Player should support all file formats that where compatible with older versions of the software.
After installing Windows Media Player (the most recent version) make sure that it is set as the default application to open WMA files. The process of associating file formats with default application may differ in details depending on platform, but the basic procedure is very similar.
Selecting the first-choice application in Windows
Selecting the first-choice application in Mac OS
Should the problem still occur after following steps 1-3, check if the WMA file is valid. Being unable to access the file can be related to various issues.
If the file is infected, the malware that resides in the WMA file hinders attempts to open it. Immediately scan the file using an antivirus tool or scan the whole system to ensure the whole system is safe. WMA file is infected with malware? Follow the steps suggested by your antivirus software.
If you obtained the problematic WMA file from a third party, ask them to supply you with another copy. The file might have been copied erroneously and the data lost integrity, which precludes from accessing the file. It could happen the the download process of file with WMA extension was interrupted and the file data is defective. Download the file again from the same source.
Sometimes in order to access files user need to have administrative privileges. Switch to an account that has required privileges and try opening the Windows Media Audio Format file again.
The operating systems may note enough free resources to run the application that support WMA files. Close all running programs and try opening the WMA file.
Up-to-date system and drivers not only makes your computer more secure, but also may solve problems with Windows Media Audio Format file. Outdated drivers or software may have caused the inability to use a peripheral device needed to handle WMA files.
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