How to Play DVD in Ubuntu Linux
Playing DVDs in Ubuntu Linux requires installing specific software because Ubuntu doesn’t play encrypted or protected DVDs by default.
A codec is a piece of software that helps your computer understand different video and audio file types. Without the right codecs, Ubuntu can’t read the files on most commercial DVDs.
Many DVDs use copy protection, which Ubuntu doesn’t handle on its own. Region codes, which limit playback to specific geographic areas, can also prevent a DVD from playing.
To fix this, you’ll need to install packages like `libdvd-pkg`. This guide will show you how to add the necessary software so you can watch your DVDs on Ubuntu.
Install the libdvd-pkg package and run `sudo dpkg-reconfigure libdvd-pkg` in the terminal. This installs the necessary codecs. You may also need to install `ubuntu-restricted-extras` for broader format support.
How to get Ubuntu Linux to play DVD and movie videos
As mentioned, Ubuntu won’t play encrypted or protected DVDs out of the box because most are protected. To enable playback, you need the correct codecs installed.
Here’s how to get Ubuntu Linux playing DVDs and other movie videos.
First, install libdvd-pkg in Ubuntu. This package resides in the multiverse repository, which you’ll need to enable.
Run the commands below to enable the repository and install libdvd-pkg.
sudo add-apt-repository multiverse sudo apt install libdvd-pkg
When prompted, select ‘Ok’.
┌───────────────────────────────────────────────┤ Configuring libdvd-pkg ├───────────────────────────────────────────────┐
│This package automates the process of launching downloads of the source files for libdvdcss2 from videolan.org,
compiling them, and installing the binary packages (libdvdcss2 libdvdcss-dev). Please run
"sudo dpkg-reconfigure libdvd-pkg" to launch this process for the first time.
<Ok> On the next screen, choose ‘Yes’.
┌───────────────────────────────────────────────┤ Configuring libdvd-pkg ├───────────────────────────────────────────────┐
│ │
│ If activated, the APT post-invoke hook takes care of future automatic upgrades of libdvdcss2 (which may be triggered │
│ by new versions of libdvd-pkg). When updates are available, the hook will launch the process of downloading the │
│ source, recompiling it, and (if "apt-get check" reports no errors) using "dpkg -i" to install the new versions. │
│ │
│ Alternatively, the process can be launched manually by running "sudo dpkg-reconfigure libdvd-pkg". │
│ │
│ Enable automatic upgrades for libdvdcss2? │
│ │
│ <Yes> <No> │
│ │
└────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘
Depending on your Ubuntu version, you might need to install additional tools. Run each command line as shown; if a package doesn’t install, it’s likely not compatible with your current Ubuntu version.
sudo apt install libdvdread7 sudo apt install libdvdread8 sudo apt install libdvdread4 sudo apt install libdvdnav4
To install further packages and plugins for browsers, run the commands below.
sudo apt install gstreamer1.0-plugins-bad gstreamer1.0-plugins-ugly sudo apt install ubuntu-restricted-extras
These packages and tools should get you up and running with playing DVDs and videos in Ubuntu.
That should do it!
Conclusion:
- Installing libdvd-pkg in Ubuntu is essential to enable the necessary codecs for playing encrypted or protected DVDs.
- Additional tools like libdvdread7, libdvdread8, libdvdread4, libdvdnav4, and gstreamer1.0-plugins-bad may also be required depending on the Ubuntu version.
- To enhance the media playback experience, consider installing the ubuntu-restricted-extras package and gstreamer1.0-plugins-ugly.
- After following these steps, you should be able to enjoy playing DVDs and videos on Ubuntu seamlessly.
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About the Author
Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
Hi I just installed Ubunto 18.10 and I’ve tried various ways to install the DVD pkg without success qnd could use some guidance how to get my computer to play dvds otherwise this program is useless to me if I can’t manage to get the most simple thing to work plse help me. I am q new user to Linux it was suggested by a friend of mine who’s now deceased qnd can’t help me.