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3 Steps to Play DVD in Ubuntu Linux (Fix Codecs)

Richard
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Richard
Jun 30, 2022 Updated Apr 19, 2026 1 min read
Enable Automatic Suspension in Ubuntu Linux Easily
Enable Automatic Suspension in Ubuntu Linux Easily

You can play DVDs in Ubuntu Linux by installing essential media codecs.

Ubuntu, by default, doesn’t include the necessary software (codecs) to decode the encrypted content found on most commercial DVDs, preventing them from playing. These codecs are small programs that enable your computer to understand and process various media file formats.

Commercial DVDs often use encryption like CSS (Content Scramble System) to protect against unauthorized copying. Ubuntu respects these protections, and without the right codecs, your system cannot access the movie data.

Once you complete this quick 3-step process, you’ll be able to enjoy your DVD collection and play a wider range of video files on your Ubuntu machine.

⚡ Quick Answer

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 play DVD with VLC Linux?

Insert a DVD and open VLC media player. Menu Media->Open Disc. Click DVD. Do you see /dev/sr0 or another reasonable entry for our optical drive?

Can Linux play DVDs?

yes, and also windows 10. I've tried multiple DVDs and software and have not been able to get Win10 to play anything. so? Yep, there's a couple dozen players and some of the distros even offer to install the requirements for you.

How to open DVD in Linux?

Put the DVD into your computer. The DVD should show up on your desktop. Right click on it and click "open with >". Select your movie player and test.

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Richard

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.

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0 Comments

  • 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.

    Reply

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