What Codec does an Audio/Video file use?

Here are some tools to help determine what video file is used by a specific audio or video file:
 
This shows up as a new tab in the file's properties:
 
A standalone application:
 
Another (older) application:
 
What codecs are currently installed?
 
For Windows Media Player (WMP):
To install WMP, go to Programs and Features > Turn Windows features on or off > Media Features.
  1. If WMP is in player mode switch to Library mode
  2. Right-click on an empty an empty area of the tool/menu bar
  3. If you don't see the Help menu, then select Organize > Layout > Show menu bar
  4. Select Help->About Windows Media Player
  5. Click Technical Support Information
For the entire system:
 
The second post here has some good info on media playback:
 
Microsoft FAQ's on codecs
 

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