File Opens but Is Not Saved When You Click a Link to an Audio or Video File (304839)

The information in this article applies to:

Microsoft Internet Explorer version 6 for Windows 98
Microsoft Internet Explorer version 6 for Windows 98 Second Edition
Microsoft Internet Explorer version 6 for Windows Millennium Edition
Microsoft Internet Explorer version 6 for Windows 2000
Microsoft Internet Explorer version 6 for Windows XP
Microsoft Internet Explorer version 6 for Windows XP 64-Bit Edition

This article was previously published under Q304839

SYMPTOMS

When you click a link to a file that has a multimedia file name extension, the file may play in the main Internet Explorer window (Internet Explorer 6) or in Windows Media Player.

If you have not already set your Media Bar preference in Internet Explorer 6, you may receive the following error message:

Media Bar Settings

You clicked an audio or video link. Internet Explorer can play this in its own window, so it will be easier for you to see or hear it while still browsing the Web.

Do you want to play the item in Internet Explorer?

There is no option to automatically save the multimedia content that is associated with the link.

CAUSE

This behavior can occur because the multimedia file format is supported by Windows Media Player and is considered safe--that is, the file does not contain executable code that could be a virus.

WORKAROUND

To work around this behavior, right-click the multimedia link, and then click Save Target As. A dialog box then asks you to specify where you want to save the multimedia file that is associated with this link.

Note that you might not be able to save all multimedia content because some content may be streaming media or may be protected.

STATUS

This behavior is by design.

MORE INFORMATION

The Media Bar in Internet Explorer 6 makes it easy for you to play music, video, or multimedia files.

Modification Type:	Major	Last Reviewed:	12/5/2003
Keywords:	kbgraphic kbnetwork kbnofix kbprb kbsound kbui KB304839