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I am relatively new to linux, but not to computers. I want to try out several different distributions and learn more about linux, but I read that some distributions will not play DVDs. Since my computer is my DVD player, I need this to be an option. Any suggestions?
I have to say that I've never run across one that does not play DVDs. I'm not saying it can't happen due to hardware issues, but I believe they will all do what you're looking for.
Almost any distribution will play DVDs, it's just a legal restriction in some countries that the required software can't be included. The problem is that Linux distributions are free, and the ability to use the hardware you paid for to play the movies you paid for is licensed. Since no one is collecting the license fee, the distribution can't include the software without risk of being charged with "contributory infringement". Google most any distribution and DVD and you'll find the instructions.
Last edited by macemoneta; 02-18-2011 at 08:16 AM.
Many Linux distros ship with only "free" software, due to ideological or legal concerns. The codec required to play a commercial DVD is called "libdvdcss" (or sometimes "libdvdcss2") and is not considered "free" software. Therefore you need to download and install libdvdcss yourself on most Linux distros.
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