How to Play DVD in Ubuntu Linux
Playing DVDs in Ubuntu Linux requires extra software because the system lacks built-in support for encrypted commercial discs out of the box. Most movie discs use region codes and copy protection that standard video players cannot read by default.
You can fix this by installing special helper packages like libdvd-pkg that unlock DVD playback on your PC. Once you add these packages, standard media players can finally read and play your movie collection.
How to get Ubuntu Linux to play DVD and movie videos
Commercial discs remain encrypted for copyright reasons, requiring extra tools for playback. The following steps cover enabling the necessary repositories and installing the required packages.
First, install libdvd-pkg in Ubuntu. This package resides in the multiverse repository, which requires enabling.
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 get your system up and running with playing DVDs and videos in Ubuntu.
That completes the setup process.
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.