Checks

• The optical CD/DVD drive in your computer uses a laser to read the information stored on CD/DVD discs. If your disc is dusty or damaged, it may prevent the drive's accessing the data. If your disc is not recognized, remove it from the drive and perform a visual check to ensure there is no visible damage. You should also check the drive itself to ensure it is clean.
  
  

Troubleshooting

• If you have access to a second computer, try the same CD or DVD in that machine. If the disc works in the second computer, this indicates a problem with the drive or XP operating system on the original computer.
  
  Similarly, try a different disc in the first computer. If that disc works without problems, there is likely a problem with the specific CD or DVD.
  
  

Issue

• Microsoft highlights an issue that can occur on Windows computers and will prevent your optical drive from being recognized. Microsoft provides detailed online instructions to resolve the problem. These instructions involve accessing the Windows registry and could cause problems if you perform them incorrectly. You may prefer to seek the help of a computer technician or try to use Microsoft's "Fix it" utility, which is available for download from Microsoft's website.
  
  

Utility

• The free "Fix it" utility, compatible with Windows XP, diagnoses hardware and operating system problems affecting your optical drive. If your basic checks do not resolve the problem, download and run this program. It may be able to resolve the issue.