Folks-

For the first time in the two years that I have owned my E521, I tried to play a DVD.  My OS is Win XP Media Center, so I thought it would be a no-brainer.  Apparently not.  Media Center says that it needs Windows Messenger, and will not play the DVD (also says it needs a decoder).

1) What is Windows Messenger (and why would I need it to play a DVD)?

2) In my dust covered pile of backup OEM CDs, I have Sonic Cineplayer.  Should I load/re-load?

3) Many folks sing the praises of NERO.  Since I ultimately want to burn DVDs as well, should I just buck up and buy NERO?

        Thanks in advance,

                Stu (Knucklehead if you like)