Question
Answer and Explanation
MDP files are primarily associated with the Mobile Data Protection (MDP) format, often used for storing forensic data. Unfortunately, VLC Media Player does not natively support MDP files, meaning you cannot directly open them as a video or audio file.
However, there are some steps you can try to potentially view or access the information within an MDP file, although it won't be through standard video playback:
1. Confirm the File Type:
- First, make sure the file extension is indeed .mdp. Sometimes files can be mislabeled. If the file isn’t an MDP file, then VLC may be able to play it, but if it is, it will not be supported.
2. Use a Forensic Tool:
- Since MDP files are typically used for forensic purposes, you'll need a dedicated forensic software solution. Tools like Oxygen Forensic Detective, XRY, or Cellebrite UFED are designed to parse and analyze MDP data. These tools can extract data and display it in a readable format, and if the data includes images or videos, those can be viewed using the same software. However, you usually need specific licenses to use such tools.
3. Hex Editors:
- If you're comfortable with more technical options, you could try opening the MDP file with a hex editor. This will show the raw bytes of the file, potentially revealing the file's internal structure. Look for recognizable file headers or string data that might hint at the type of content within the MDP file, but you won't be able to directly play a video in this way. Common hex editors include HxD or Hex Fiend.
4. Converting the File (If Possible):
- Sometimes, forensic software can extract specific data types (like images or video) from the MDP container and output it as a standard format. If the file does contain media, then those data types can be converted into usable formats, like an MP4 file.
5. Consult the Source or Originator:
- If you received the MDP file from another party, inquire what tool or software they originally used to create or view it. They may have additional guidance, which can assist you on what to do.
Why VLC Can't Play MDP Files
VLC Media Player is designed to handle a wide range of audio and video formats. MDP files, being a container format for forensic data, are not within the scope of VLC's capabilities. They do not follow a standard media format that VLC knows how to interpret, decode, and play.
In summary: VLC cannot directly play MDP files. You need to use specialized forensic tools to examine the file's content. If the forensic tool extracts video or audio data, then those might be playable within VLC after converting them to usable formats.