There are a variety of software technologies used on computers to play internet webcasts, podcasts, radio and TV.  The primary "players" are: Windows Media Player, Real Audio, Apple Quick Time, Macromedia and Winamp.

The software may have come installed on your new computer or you may need to install it.  All the software programs are available without charge.  Each program comes with operating instructions; instructions for downloading and installing the programs are available from their websites.   

Where can I get players for media files?

Microsoft Media Player (official site)

Real Player (official site)

QuickTime Player (official site)

Macromedia Flash Plugin (official site)

Winamp Media Player (official site)

Webcasting, podcasting, radio and TV available on the internet are, in internet terminology, "streaming" media.  You need to know a little bit about how they work.

What is streaming?

A stream for the internet is analogous to a broadcast for radio or TV.  It is what carries the program information, in digital form over the internet, to your computer.

Why can't I play a program or, if I can, why does my playback get interrupted?

Reception issues can come from either the streaming source site, your internet service provider (ISP), or your computer.

While you can not effect the performance of the streaming source site, you can significantly influence the quality of your reception by having a high-speed internet connection and an appropriate computer.  A high-speed internet connection, such as DSL and cable, is a must.  And faster is definitely better.  Streaming media demand such connections to play properly.  Dial-up connections will not work.