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Today, in this article we will discuss about how to Fix “Video Not Playing in PowerPoint” issue. It is essential to embed a video in order to present your content in a creative manner and to grab the attention of the listener, regardless of whether you are a student, a businessman, or just someone who is giving a presentation. Furthermore, for some people, it is a means of expressing themselves; the incorporation of videos into PowerPoint presentations is a way for them to reflect their individuality.
But what happens if, while you are putting your presentations through their paces, the PowerPoint videos you have downloaded do not play? You need not be concerned because we have you covered. You are able to insert a video from your personal computer or from online sites such as YouTube and Vimeo into PowerPoint. The video can then be cropped, rotated, and trimmed after that.
Additionally, it enables you to record audio on your presentation as well as insert an audio file from a personal computer. When you preview your presentation, it must be very frustrating when the video or audio that you have inserted is unable to play during the preview. Explain why PowerPoint is unable to play media. Here are the simple method how to Fix “Video Not Playing in PowerPoint” issue.
Causes of the “Video Not Playing in PowerPoint” issue
- Corrupted Video File: If the video file itself is corrupted or damaged, PowerPoint won’t be able to play it. Try playing the video in a different media player to confirm if it’s functioning properly.
- External Links: If the video is linked from an external source and your computer is not connected to the internet, PowerPoint won’t be able to access and play the video. Ensure that your computer is connected to the internet or embed the video directly into the presentation.
- Hardware Acceleration: Sometimes, issues with hardware acceleration settings can interfere with video playback in PowerPoint. Try disabling hardware acceleration in PowerPoint settings and see if the video plays correctly.
- Outdated Software: If your PowerPoint software is outdated, it may lack the necessary features or updates to properly play videos. Update PowerPoint to the latest version available.
- Insufficient System Resources: If your computer doesn’t have enough RAM or processing power, it may struggle to play videos smoothly in PowerPoint. Close unnecessary programs and processes to free up system resources.
- Permissions: If the video file is stored in a restricted location or has restricted permissions, PowerPoint may not be able to access it. Ensure that the file location is accessible and that you have the necessary permissions to open the file.
How to Fix “Video Not Playing in PowerPoint” issue
Check Video Format Compatibility

- Ensure video format is compatible with PowerPoint.
- PowerPoint supports range of video formats: MP4, WMV, AVI.
- Convert video to supported format using reliable video converter tool.
Verify Video Link and File Path
- Verify the video file for corruption and correct file path.
- Moved or renamed video file after inserting into PowerPoint? Link might be broken.
- Reinsert the video into presentation.
- Ensure accuracy of file path.
Check for PowerPoint Updates
- Compatibility issues can arise due to outdated software.
- Check for updates for your version of PowerPoint and install them if available.
- Microsoft regularly releases updates to address bugs and improve compatibility with various file formats, including videos.
Adjust Playback Settings
- Video still doesn’t play, adjust playback settings in PowerPoint.
- Right-click on the video object.
- Select “Playback”.
- Choose “Automatically” or “When Clicked” under “Start” dropdown menu.
- Ensure video plays automatically or when clicked during presentation.
Enable Hardware Acceleration
- Enabling hardware acceleration resolve playback issues.
- Go to “File” > “Options” > “Advanced” and scroll down to the “Display” section.
- Check the box next to “Disable hardware graphics acceleration” to enable it.
- Restart PowerPoint and check if the video plays correctly.
Optimize Video Size and Quality
- Large video files or those with high resolutions can strain PowerPoint’s resources and cause playback problems.
- Consider optimizing the video by reducing its size or converting it to a lower resolution.
- There are various online tools and software available for this purpose.
Test on Another Computer
- Test PowerPoint Presentation on Another Computer
- Rule Out Local Issues
- Compatibility Problems: May be Specific to Your Computer’s Configuration
- Video Plays Correctly: Another System
- Problem Likely Lies: Your Computer
Conclusion
The incorporation of video into PowerPoint presentations not only increases audience participation but also effectively conveys abstract concepts. On the other hand, it can be extremely frustrating to experience problems in PowerPoint within which videos refuse to play. It is essential that you find a solution to this problem as soon as possible, regardless of whether you are preparing a business presentation or an educational seminar. The following is a comprehensive and step-by-step guide that will assist you in troubleshooting and fixing the “Video Not Playing in PowerPoint” issue.
Questions and Answers
Examine the format of the video: It is imperative that the video that you have embedded is in a format that is compatible with MS PowerPoint. There are many different video formats that PowerPoint is able to support, including MP4, WMV, and AVI. If the video is not in a format that is compatible, you should attempt to convert it to a format that is supported.
Either you can convert the media file to the format that is recommended or you can add a missing codec to your personal computer, as described in the procedure that follows. If your media file is in a format that is supported, but it will not play in PowerPoint, then you have two options. Converting your media file is a much simpler process than figuring out the mystery of each individual codec.
PPT files, also known as binary files, have a maximum size of 4 gigabytes due to a limitation of 32 bits. The maximum size of a video that can be inserted into a PowerPoint slide is determined by the maximum size of a PowerPoint file. Since 1 bit is typically reserved for sign, anything that is greater than 2 gigabytes may be subject to some potential problems.