Can’t Play Flv files from Windows 2003 Server

Problem

One of the problem I found when working with flv files was when I tried to host a video gallery website in a windows 2003 server. While FLV is a relatively new file format used for Adobe Flash video files. By default, the flv type does not work with windows 2003 server IIS. In order accomodate this files the MIME types needs to be referenced. However, this format is great for adding video to your website without the worry of downloading plugins.

Solution

Here’s how to add it so that your videos will stream properly.

1. Open the site to configure in IIS. Right click and select “Properties”
2. Click the HTTP Headers Tab, select “File Types” under the MIME Map section, and then click “New Type”. Enter the following:
   • Associated Extension box: .flv
   • MIME Type box: flv-application/octet-stream
3. Click “OK” and close the IIS Properties box
4. You may need to restart the WWW Publishing Service