MP4 (AVC) is the recommended format for hosted videos.
Windows Media Player is not a recommended player option for this, nor do I know if it can be made to work.
Use an embedded Flash-based player, JWPlayer being the most popular and easy to use. Some more info and suggestions here: http://www.jazzythedog.com/testing/DNxHD/HD-Guide.aspx
You will also want to use a fast-start utility such as AoA MP4 Patch on your Vegas files before uploading.
I always render out in MP4 format for posting videos on the web.......YouTube and the like and they have always uploaded problem free. I also play the MP4 files on my own PC either using Picasa 3, Windows Media Player or VLC media player and once again have not experienced any playback problems.
musicvid........could you explain in a bit more detail what this fast-start utility actually does, where it can be obtained and how you apply it to the Vegas files prior to uploading. Thanks.
It places the MOOV atom at the beginning of the file so playback can start immediately upon starting the download. All the information you need is on Google.
OP is talking about web delivery from his own server -- not Youtube or from a local machine.
Is there a difference between opening an mp4 file from my computer versus from a website?
The reason I ask is because I am also able to play mp4 files on my computer using Windows Media Player. I thought the mp4 file could just be posted on the website and people could right click on it and open it with either Media Player of QuickTime.
JWPlayer can be found here: http://www.longtailvideo.com/players/
Once again, the internet (and the forum search feature) are your friends. Best of luck.