Windows Media Center was an entertainment system software that originally arrived on Windows XP. After XP, the media suite was subsequently included in Windows Vista and Windows 7. But, when Windows 8 arrived, the suite was no longer included and required a separate purchase. For Windows 10, Microsoft discontinued the entertainment software but did introduce Windows DVD player, as a replacement. The app was offered free for some, but those who did not qualify were charged with $14.99.
Despite this, a couple of users over at the MDL forums have found a workaround that lets you install Windows Media Center right on your Windows 10 PC. This reportedly includes Insider builds 10240 and 10532. The project was in the works for quite some time now and has just recently come to fruition.
Windows Blog Italia has documented the steps on how you can bring back the media software back to your PC. It should be noted, though, that this is not officially authorized by Microsoft and is a workaround provided by enthusiasts - so we advise users to proceed with caution.
- Download and extract the file "WindowsMediaCenter_10.0.10134.0.zip" through this address.
- Look for the file "_TestRights.cmd", right click it, and then click "Run as administrator."
- A command prompt window will appear. Reboot your PC after.
- Look for the file "Installer.cm," right click on it, and then click "Run as administrator."
- One the installer is done, a message will display saying "Press any key to exit."
- That's it!
Congratulations! Windows Media Center has now been installed on your PC. Doing a search on the taskbar will reveal that it's now installed and available for pinning to the Start Menu. Are you going to install Windows Media Center for your Windows 10 PC? Let us know how it goes!
Source: MDL Forums, Windows Blog Italia via Windows Central