VLC Stutters on Windows 11: Developers Blame Microsoft Defender
Photo: Tom's Hardware
Quick answer
Windows 11 users report a 33-second delay when playing MP3 files in VLC due to Microsoft Defender blocking the plugin cache.
Windows 11 users have reported an unexpected issue with the VLC media player: when attempting to play MP3 files, the player launches with a delay of up to 33 seconds. Initially, game developer Jonathan Blow blamed VLC itself, calling the situation an example of instability in open-source software on Windows. However, the VLC team responded to the criticism, pinpointing the root cause—a recent Microsoft Defender update.
According to developers, the Windows antivirus began blocking the VLC plugin cache file (plugins.dat), leading to prolonged initialization of the player’s components. VLC relies on plugins to support various codecs and formats, and the cache accelerates their loading. When the cache is blocked, the player must scan the plugin directory each time, causing the delay.
The issue can be resolved in several ways. The simplest method is to reinstall VLC or reset the cache using the built-in utility vlc-cache-gen.exe, available in the installation folder or via the Start menu. However, this will remove user settings, including the equalizer and hotkeys. A more reliable solution is to add the VLC installation folder to Microsoft Defender’s exclusion list to prevent the antivirus from interfering with the cache.
While temporary fixes exist, the situation raises concerns about software compatibility with Windows updates. Users must perform additional steps for applications to work correctly, which is inconvenient. Microsoft has not yet commented on the issue, but a future Defender update may resolve the error.
Common questions
- Why does VLC take so long to launch MP3 files in Windows 11?
- The delay occurs because Microsoft Defender blocks VLC’s plugin cache after a recent system update, forcing the player to rescan plugins before playback.
- How can I fix the playback delay in VLC on Windows 11?
- Reinstall VLC, reset the plugin cache using vlc-cache-gen.exe, or add the VLC installation folder to Microsoft Defender’s exclusion list to prevent interference.
- Who is responsible for the VLC issue: the player’s developers or Microsoft?
- VLC’s team blames Microsoft Defender’s update for blocking the plugin cache, while Microsoft has not yet commented on the situation.
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