VP9 Video Extensions: Download, Install & Fix Common Issues on Windows 10/11

5 mins read

Updated on 2025-07-02 22:31:37 to Video Tips

The VP9 Video Extension enables seamless playback of VP9-encoded videos, a modern, open-source codec designed for efficient streaming and high-quality playback on platforms like YouTube. Part of the Microsoft Windows VP9 Video Extensions Library, it’s essential for smooth video performance on Windows 10/11. Common issues like missing codecs or conflicts can disrupt playback, but this guide covers everything from understanding VP9 to downloading, updating, and uninstalling the extension for a hassle-free experience.

Part 1. What Is VP9 Video Extension & Do I Need It?

1. What does VP9 Stand For & VP9 Video Extension Meaning

VP9 stands for “Video Processing 9,” a royalty-free, open-source video coding format developed by Google. It’s widely used for online video platforms such as YouTube and Netflix, where it enables smooth, high-resolution video playback without using excessive bandwidth.

The VP9 Video Extension is a Microsoft-developed add-on that allows Windows apps — including Edge, Movies & TV, and third-party players — to decode VP9 content natively. It is part of the Microsoft Windows VP9 Video Extensions library and is available for free via the Microsoft Store or other sources.

Without this extension, users may encounter:

  • Playback errors in web browsers when streaming VP9 content
  • "Format not supported" messages in media players
  • Audio-only playback with missing video streams
  • Performance issues when accessing YouTube, Netflix, and other streaming platforms

2. Do I Need VP9 Video Extension?

Yes. You need it, especially if you encounter any of the following scenarios:

  • You're trying to play VP9-encoded videos (.webm or .mkv) in Microsoft Edge or the Movies & TV app, but see playback errors.
  • You use video editing or playback software that depends on system codecs.
  • You want to watch 4K or 8K videos on YouTube without stuttering.
  • Your hardware supports VP9 acceleration but lacks software decoding.

If you're running Windows 10 or 11 and care about streaming efficiency or modern media compatibility, having the VP9 Video Extension installed ensures better performance and fewer compatibility issues.

Part 2. Stepwise Guide for VP9 Video Extension Download on Windows 10/11

Before downloading, know that there are two main options: downloading from the Microsoft Store or using offline installers. For systems without Microsoft Store access, the VP9 Video Extensions without Microsoft Store method is ideal.

Common Download Sources:

  • Microsoft Store: Official source for the VP9 Video Extensions Metro App (version 1.2.6.0 as of May 2025).
  • Offline Installer: Useful for enterprise setups or limited internet access.

Steps to Download VP9 Video Extension:

Option 1: Microsoft Store (Metro App)

  • Open the Microsoft Store app on your Windows 10/11 device.

  • Search for “VP9 Video Extensions” or visit the direct link: Microsoft Store VP9 Video Extensions.

    download vp9 video extension metro app
  • Click Get to download and install the VP9 Video Extensions Metro App. Sign in with a Microsoft account if prompted.

  • Wait for the installation to complete, then test by playing a VP9-encoded video in the Movies & TV app.

Option 2: VP9 Video Extensions Offline Installer

If your device can’t access the Microsoft Store:

  • Visit a trusted third-party site like Uptodown or Microsoft update catalog.

    download vp9 video extension from uptodown
  • Download the VP9 Video Extensions offline installer (e.g., Microsoft.VP9VideoExtensions_1.2.6.0_x64.appx).

  • Open PowerShell as an administrator. Just right-click “Start” > select “Windows PowerShell” (Admin).

  • Run the command: Add-AppxPackage -Path "C:\Path\To\Downloaded\Microsoft.VP9VideoExtensions_1.2.6.0_x64.appx" (replace with your file path).

  • Press Enter to install and verify by playing a VP9 video.

Part 3. How to Uninstall VP9 Video Extension

If you no longer need the VP9 Video Extensions or want to remove VP9 Video Extensions due to conflicts or minimal usage, uninstalling is straightforward. This can free up space or resolve issues on systems like Windows 10/11 LTSC where codec management is critical. Follow these steps to safely remove the extension using built-in Windows tools.

Via Settings

  • Open Settings (Windows key + I) and navigate to Apps > Apps & features.

  • Search for “VP9 Video Extensions” in the list.

  • Click on the app and select “Uninstall”. Confirm if prompted.

  • Restart your PC to ensure the extension is fully removed.

Via PowerShell (For Advanced Users or LTSC Systems):

  • Open PowerShell as an administrator.

  • Run the command: Get-AppxPackage Microsoft.VP9VideoExtensions | Remove-AppxPackage.

    uninstall vp9 video extension with powershell
  • Press Enter to uninstall the VP9 Video Extensions Metro App.

  • Verify removal by checking if VP9 videos no longer play natively in Windows apps like Movies & TV.

Part 4. Bonus Tip: How to Fix Corrupted Video Files After VP9 Installation Issues

Sometimes, during VP9 installation or conversion processes, your video files may become corrupted, showing no image, audio glitches, or playback failure. Don’t worry. You can repair these files using a professional tool like 4DDiG Video Repair.

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4DDiG Video Repair is a powerful tool designed to fix broken, unplayable, or corrupted video files, including those affected by VP9 codec issues. It supports a wide range of video formats like MP4, MOV, AVI, MKV, Webm (VP9-related video codec), and more.

It’s especially useful if:

  • VP9 files crash media players after installation
  • Conversion attempts lead to file damage
  • Videos freeze or show green/black screens
  • Fire up the 4DDiG File Repair software on PC. Then navigate to the left menu called “Corrupted File Repair” and then click on the “Video Repair” box.

    select 4ddig video repair
  • Upload the VP9-related video files (Webm) or other popular files (MP4, MOV, etc) to this software through the “Add Video” button or the drag-and-drop action.

    add vp9 related videos to repair
  • Once uploaded, hit “Repair All” to kick off the repair process for corrupted files affected by VP9 Video Extension. Also, you can try “Advanced Repair” for higher success rates.

    repair all added video files
  • Wait it to complete. Afterward, you can check the repaired result from “Preview” and export them from “Save All”.

    preview and save repaired videos

People Also Ask about Windows VP9 Video Extension

Q1: Is VP9 a good codec?

Yes. VP9 is a highly efficient, open-source codec developed by Google. It provides excellent video quality at lower bitrates compared to older formats like H.264. It’s widely supported by YouTube, Netflix, Chrome, Firefox, and newer Android and Windows systems.

Q2: Does MP4 support VP9 codec?

Technically, MP4 can support the VP9 codec, but it’s not commonly used. MP4 containers typically use H.264 or H.265 codecs due to broader compatibility. VP9 is more often found in .webm or .mkv containers, especially for streaming. If you need VP9 in an MP4 file, you can convert it using tools like Online-Convert. The VP9 Video Extensions latest version ensures Windows apps can play VP9 content, regardless of the container.

Conclusion

The VP9 Video Extension enhances Windows 10/11’s ability to play high-quality VP9 videos, like those on YouTube, using the Microsoft Windows VP9 Video Extensions Library. Now you have figured out its purpose, installation, conversion to MP4, and fixing corrupted files with tools like 4DDiG Video Repair. Whether installing, uninstalling, or troubleshooting, these steps ensure seamless video playback.

FREE DOWNLOAD

Secure Download

FREE DOWNLOAD

Secure Download

William Bollson (senior editor)

William Bollson, the editor-in-chief of 4DDiG, devotes to providing the best solutions for Windows and Mac related issues, including data recovery, repair, error fixes.

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