What is a Windows Media File?

A Windows Media File refers to either a WMA (Windows Media Audio) or WMV, (Windows Media file with audio/video.)  These Windows Media files are compressed, and therefore take up less space than the typical music or video files.  Windows media files were created by Microsoft to deliver music, videos, and other digital content without taking up a lot of space. 

Windows Media File:  WMA

Windows Media audio, or WMA files, are compressed audio file formats similar to those of an MP3.  The basic principles of the Windows Media file for audio and the MP3 remain the same, while the details differ slightly.  Windows media audio files are smaller in size than MP3s are, but their sound quality does not suffer.  In other words, WMA users get the same audio quality with the convenience of smaller files.  The most current version of WMA is 9.1. 

Windows Media File:  WMV

Windows Media Video files, or WMV files, are used to download and stream videos.  This means that the videos can be played as they are being interpreted from the Internet.  This allows the files to be smaller than many other video file formats. 

How Broadband Internet Can Benefit Windows Media Files

Without a broadband Internet connection, problems with downloading and playing media can occur.  Therefore, it is important to have a broadband Internet connection in order to use both types of Windows Media Files, WMA and WMV.  A broadband Internet connection not only helps ensure that the files are downloaded and operating properly, but it also makes downloading and playing music and videos faster than they could ever be with dial-up.