Windows XP includes a DVD exe program. Go to C:\Windows\system32 and look for dvdplay.exe put a shortcut to it on your desktop. You may need to download some codecs to see every video format.
Go to
http://www.k-litecodecpack.com and download the basic or standard
You may need to launch your desktop shortcut first then insert the DVD to play it. I think you'll find with the proper codecs, it will work better than any of the other software programs you add to the computer.
I am looking for a free DVD software program to download. My computer is a DELL 2400 with Windows XP Home edition and 1 gig of ram. I have downloaded a few free ones but have had trouble with all of them. All I want is something where I can insert a DVD and the program will start automatically. I know a free one is limited as to what I can do and can't do. If someone knows of a paid program that I get the above results without a bunch of trouble let me know. I have a friend that just bought a new Gateway laptop and the Real Player Program that came with it has a DVD player included. The Real Player that I have doesn't have this included. I use Real Player for almost all of my music needs and that might be the way to go, just buy their DVD player. I would kind of like to get some feedback from some of you knowledgeable folks. Thanks for any help you can give me. 
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