What does the UserAgent “NSPlayer” mean in web radio logs?

What is the UserAgent “NSPlayer”?

The UserAgent “NSPlayer” appears in web radio logs when a user accesses your stream via an application based on Windows Media Player or Microsoft streaming technology.

“NSPlayer” stands for NetShow Player – this was the original name of the Windows Media Player in the late 1990s. Although the brand is no longer active today, the name lives on in the UserAgent to this day.

Where does NSPlayer come from?

The UserAgent “NSPlayer” dates back to the time when Microsoft developed the NetShow-Streaming system – a predecessor of Windows Media Services. Many later players (e.g. Windows Media Player 6-12) retain the old string to ensure backward compatibility.

Even today, NSPlayer can still appear at:

  • older Windows versions with Media Player
  • certain third-party apps that use Windows components
  • Embedded devices with Windows-based software

Why is “NSPlayer” visible in web radio logs?

If a listener accesses with a player that uses the Windows Media Engine, this sends the UserAgent “NSPlayer ” – usually supplemented by version numbers (e.g. NSPlayer/10.0.0.3702).

These entries mean:

  • This is a real listener (not a bot)
  • Access is via Windows-based software
  • The player used is outdated or very simple

Should we be worried?

Not necessarily – but it’s worth paying attention:

  • NSPlayer accesses indicate older devices or software
  • These listeners may have problems with modern streaming technologies (e.g. AAC or HTTPS)
  • If your stream is only available in MP3 or via HTTP, for example, this is due to this old software

If you use modern formats or secure connections, it is possible that NSPlayer users will not be able to play the stream.

Conclusion: NSPlayer stands for outdated but still active players

The UserAgent “NSPlayer” stands for older Windows-based players, usually Windows Media Player. Although the technology is outdated, there are still listeners who use it to access streams. This user group is small, but has not completely disappeared – especially on older PCs or in corporate networks.