# FAQ:Installing the FFmpeg Import/Export Library

From Audacity Development Manual
The optional FFmpeg library allows Audacity to import and export a much larger range of audio formats including M4A (AAC), AC3, AMR (narrow band) and WMA and also to import audio from most video files.

Because of software patents, Audacity cannot include the FFmpeg software or distribute it from its own websites. Instead, following the links below to instructions to download and install the free and recommended FFmpeg third-party library.

- Windows: See the FFmpeg installation section on the Installing and updating Audacity on Windows.

- Mac: See the FFmpeg installation section on the Installing and updating Audacity on Mac.

- GNU/Linux: See the FFmpeg installation section on the Installing and updating Audacity on Linux.

## Links

|< FAQ:Installation, Startup and Plug-ins