"dependes on the user, on the browser and on the media"

Yes, I see my question was vague. I remember now having a player(s) and several "plugins". From memory, the plugins were rather transparent after loading, and media generally played in the pages. Don't web links to media usually force "play" or "download" or indicate a choice?

O20, win xp

Been away for awhile.

I clicked on a media link that I think opens an mp3 podcast: "Quicktime player is out of date"

Are there still browser extensions that play these files but do not save them (at least long term) on the hard drive?
Can someone recommend an extension (or player; like QT if appropriate) and basic set up to play media files.

In general, is it best to play media in the browser, or download and play offline?

Also, will one extension handle "media" in general, or does one need separate players for audio, video, youtube, and media type variations?

Thank you.