[CelestialTeardrop]

I have an .avi video that I need to watch but it requires the XviD codec. I found it online (xvidmovies.com) and users of McAfee site advisor state that the download site is valid and used to be the one where Microsoft would send users who needed the codec. I downloaded the installer and scaned it with multiple scanners, all showed the file is clean.

But I'm still hesitant about it.

Even if no malware came bundled with the installer, I'm worried about codec security issues. Does simply having the codec installed open the computer up to any vulnerabilities (even if the codec itself is clean and all the videos to be played are also clean)?

Thanks in advance!

[Advertisements]

Do you use VLC? That should be able to play the file without having to worry about downloading a codec.

[chamber]

Do you use VLC? That should be able to play the file without having to worry about downloading a codec.

[CelestialTeardrop]

Hi Chamber,

No, I'm using Windows media player 11. Since I don't often view videos on my comp, I didn't plan to download a specific player just for them.

[chamber]

Hi,

Download VLC HERE, you won't need to worry about any codecs, you may even find that you will be able to view the file in Windows Media Player now.

Give it a shot, it can't really hurt.

[CelestialTeardrop]

Thanks for the link, I'll give it a try! Although, doesn't it mean that the VLC player will automatically/silently install the codecs?

Nonetheless, I'm still wondering if anyone can answer my original question

Even if no malware came bundled with the installer, I'm worried about codec security issues. Does simply having the codec installed open the computer up to any vulnerabilities (even if the codec itself is clean and all the videos to be played are also clean)?

[TheWhiteRose000]

go download the CCCodec pack.
Its every Code that you need to play video's accept real player.
D:

[rev_olie]

Although, doesn't it mean that the VLC player will automatically/silently install the codecs?

I can't give you a definitave answer to your second question but in regards to the quote above, VLC comes with the codecs which is why there is such broad support from the program. Theres no silent downloading involved leading it to be a very good and very trustworthy program

[mysoogals]

if your worried about virus etc backdoor kits in the installers !

go install http TCP sniffer ! press play ! system watcher software to see where the files are going and what outbound connections are being made ! that way you be sure if its clean, you can always check the CRC i think or MD5 hash from the owners website ! VLC i think has Md5 and you have to match that download with the MD5 from vlc website! if they match its cool to install !

Edited by mysoogals, 08 September 2009 - 05:12 PM.