Resolve Missing Media Features in Windows 10 N and KN with the Media Feature Pack

Step-by-Step: Add Media Playback to Windows 10 N and Windows 10 KN with the Media Feature PackWindows 10 N and Windows 10 KN editions are special variants of Windows distributed in certain regions to comply with regulatory requirements. They do not include built-in media technologies like Windows Media Player, certain codecs, and some preinstalled media apps. That can make playing audio, video, and using apps that depend on Windows media components fail or show errors.

This article explains what the Media Feature Pack is, when you need it, how to check whether it’s already installed, and provides step-by-step installation instructions for different Windows 10 versions. It also covers troubleshooting tips, verification, and alternatives if you prefer not to use Microsoft’s package.

What is the Media Feature Pack?

The Media Feature Pack is an official Microsoft package that restores the multimedia functionality omitted from Windows 10 N and KN editions. It adds components such as:

• Windows Media Player
• Media-related APIs and codecs used by third-party apps
• Media sharing and streaming features
• Media playback support for common formats (depending on Windows build and codecs included)

Installing the Media Feature Pack enables apps that rely on Microsoft’s media stack (for example, certain video editors, store apps, and web content that requires system codecs) to function properly.

When do you need it?

You need the Media Feature Pack if you encounter any of the following on Windows 10 N/KN:

• Apps report missing media components or error codes related to media features.
• You cannot play audio/video files in apps that normally use built-in Windows codecs.
• Online services and Store apps fail to play or display media content.
• Windows Media Player is missing but you want to use it.

If you only use third‑party apps that bundle their own codecs (e.g., VLC), you may not strictly need the Media Feature Pack; however, many system-level features and Store apps still require it.

Before you begin — check Windows version and edition

1. Open Settings → System → About (or press Windows key + R, type winver, and press Enter).
2. Note:
   • The Windows 10 edition (confirm it says Windows 10 N or Windows 10 KN).
   • The OS build / version (e.g., 1903, 1909, 2004, 20H2, 21H1, etc.).

Microsoft provides Media Feature Pack packages tailored to specific Windows 10 feature updates. Installing the correct pack for your Windows version is important.

How to install the Media Feature Pack

There are two main installation methods depending on your Windows 10 version: via Settings (recommended for newer builds) or by downloading the standalone installer from Microsoft.

Install via Settings (Windows 10 versions that receive the pack through Optional Features)

1. Open Settings → Apps → Optional features.
2. Click “Add a feature.”
3. In the search box, type “Media Feature Pack.”
4. Select Media Feature Pack from the results and click Install.
5. Restart your PC if prompted.

This method is supported on versions of Windows 10 where Microsoft publishes the pack as an optional feature in Settings. It’s convenient and automatically matches your installed update.

Download and install the standalone package (for older or specific builds)

1. Go to Microsoft’s official download page for the Media Feature Pack appropriate to your Windows 10 version. (Search Microsoft Support for “Media Feature Pack Windows 10 [version]” and choose the official Microsoft page for that release.)
2. Download the package that matches your Windows build and system architecture (x86, x64).
3. Run the downloaded installer and follow prompts.
4. Restart your PC after installation.

Note: For some early Windows 10 builds Microsoft provided distinct installers per feature update (e.g., 1803, 1903). Always match the pack to your OS build.

Verifying installation

• Open Start and search for Windows Media Player. If present, the pack installed successfully.
• Play a standard media file (MP3, MP4). If playback works in native apps or Store apps that previously failed, components are functioning.
• Settings → Apps → Optional features will list Media Feature Pack when installed via Settings.

Troubleshooting

• Installation fails or the pack isn’t listed:
  • Ensure you selected the pack matching your Windows build.
  • Run Windows Update and install pending updates; restart, then try again.
  • Use the “sfc /scannow” and “DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth” commands from an elevated Command Prompt to repair system files.
• After installing, some store apps still fail:
  • Open Microsoft Store → Library → Get updates to update apps.
  • Reinstall the affected apps.
• Media playback still missing:
  • Consider installing a third-party player (e.g., VLC) that includes its own codecs as a temporary workaround.
• If Windows reports you’re not on an N/KN edition but Media features are missing:
  • Confirm edition via winver and Settings → System → About. Consider running Windows Update or contacting Microsoft support.

Alternatives and codec options

• VLC, MPC-HC, and PotPlayer include built-in codecs and can play most files without the Media Feature Pack.
• K-Lite Codec Pack (third-party) can add system codecs—use with caution and download from the official site to avoid bundled software.
• If you rely on Microsoft Store apps or system sharing features, the Media Feature Pack is the recommended approach.

Security and update notes

• Install the Media Feature Pack only from Microsoft or reputable sources. Official packages receive updates through Windows Update.
• After installation, keep Windows updated so media components receive security and compatibility fixes.

Summary

• If you run Windows 10 N or KN and need system-level media features, install the Media Feature Pack that matches your OS build.
• Use Settings → Optional features when available; otherwise download the correct standalone installer from Microsoft.
• Verify installation by locating Windows Media Player and testing playback; use System File Checker and DISM for repair if problems occur.

If you tell me your exact Windows 10 version and build (from winver), I can provide the direct Microsoft download link and step-by-step commands tailored to your system.