MP3 is an audio compression system that allows users to compress audio files without noticeable loss of quality. MP3 stands for Motion Picture Experts Group Audio Layer 3 (MPEG Audio Layer 3), and because its ability to compress songs, it became de facto standard for music distribution over the web. All you need to play mp3 files is below,

• Mp3 file - you need to download mp3 files to play on your mp3 player, these can be downloaded from a range of web sites and file sharing programs. You can locate our pages about mp3 download web sites and file sharing programs on our homepage.
• Mp3 player - you can find where and which players you can download for free on our mp3 players page which can be found on our homepage.

Along with an internet connection, modern computer and operating system this is all you need to download and play mp3. A typical windows mp3 player will require the following hardware,

• Pentium 166 megahertz (MHz) processor
• 32 MB RAM
• Modern operating system such as Linux or Windows
• 28.8-kilobits per second (Kbps) modem
• 256-color video card
• 16-bit sound card

MP3s can be played on your computer using programs like RealOne, WinAmp or Windows Media Player.