DVD Software

[#1]

Hi all,
I have a laptop running windows 8.1 and have a dvd I would like to play.  I used to just stick the dvd in and press play but I have found that doesn't work.  I think that you have to buy the windows media centre now and the cyberlink programme that wants to automatically update is going to take hours. I would be grateful If anyone can offer any advice on the best way to proceed.  I  just want to download the most basic software to play a dvd.

[#2]

VLC media player works wonders and as its open source its free.  http://www.videolan.org/vlc/

[#3]

Thanks very much M Steve, just downloaded it, took seconds and is just what I need, spot on.

[#4]

You're welcome southken enjoy the DVD