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Setting network options

Use the Network tab to configure the protocols and proxy settings that you want Windows Media Player to use when receiving streaming media files.

To access the Network tab

The following options are listed on the Network tab:

Streaming protocols

Specifies the protocols Windows Media Player can use to receive a stream. The Player receives streams through UDP, TCP, and HTTP. It can also receive multicast streaming. By default, all protocols are selected, which means that the Player attempts to use each protocol to receive a stream. Because the Player can receive files by using a variety of protocols, it is recommended that you select all protocols. However, if your network implements a firewall that prevents you from receiving streams that use the UDP or TCP protocols, you may want to clear the UDP or TCP check boxes.

Use ports

Specifies a particular port if UDP is the protocol used to receive streaming content. This option is useful if your network or firewall administrator has established a specific port that allows streaming content to pass. Unless otherwise instructed, Windows Media streams attempt to pass through firewalls using the ports in the following table.

Protocol Default port
HTTP 80
MMS 1755
RTSP 554

Streaming proxy settings

Specifies how each protocol operates with a proxy server. Proxy servers are used when networks are protected by firewalls. If your network is behind a firewall, and you do not know how to configure your settings, please consult your network administrator.

The proxy server must use the default port for the selected protocol, as shown in the following table.

Protocol Default port
HTTP 80
MMS 1755
RTSP 554

Configure

Click to change the proxy settings of the selected protocol. There are several ways you can configure a protocol to work with a proxy server.

This option Specifies
Autodetect proxy settings The Player determines the ports that are open and uses them to receive streaming content.
Use proxy settings of the Web browser The Player uses the same configuration as your browser to access network communication.
Do not use a proxy server The Player does not attempt to communicate with a proxy server. Typically, this means that the Player does not receive streaming content from the Internet.
Use the following proxy server The Player uses the proxy server and the port specified. Select Bypass proxy server for local addresses if you do not want the Player to use the proxy server when streams are from local servers.

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