Setup guide
M3U / Computer IPTV setup
On a computer (Windows, macOS, Linux), IPTV is watched with a media player that supports M3U links. VLC is the most common, free and reliable option; IPTV desktop apps can also be used for a more comfortable interface.
- About 5 min
- 8 steps
- WhatsApp support
Before you start
- A Windows, macOS or Linux computer.
- A player that supports M3U (e.g. VLC Media Player) or an IPTV desktop app.
- An active IPTV subscription and the login details sent to you (M3U link or Xtream details: server address, username, password).
- A stable internet connection: at least 10 Mbps for SD, 15-20 Mbps for HD/FHD, 4 Mbps or more for 30K is recommended.
- If possible, connect the device with a network cable instead of Wi-Fi; this reduces stuttering, especially during live sports broadcasts.
Do not share your login details (username, password, link) with anyone; your account can only be used simultaneously on as many devices as are defined.
Step-by-step setup
- 1
Download the player
Download VLC from its official site (videolan.org) and install it on your computer; or install the IPTV desktop app you prefer.
- 2
Open the program
Start VLC; go to the Media section in the top menu.
- 3
Open the network stream option
Click Media > Open Network Stream. (On macOS: File > Open Network.)
- 4
Paste the M3U link
Paste the M3U link sent to you into the network address box and say "Play".
- 5
See the playlist
When the channels have loaded, open View > Playlist to see the channel list.
- 6
Choose a channel
Start watching by double-clicking a channel in the list.
- 7
Save the list (optional)
You can save the playlist as M3U and open it from the file next time.
- 8
If you use a desktop app
Use the "Add playlist > M3U URL" or "Xtream" option in the app and enter the details; the channels appear category by category.
Tips
If the picture is distorted in VLC, change the output module under Tools > Preferences > Video.
With long lists, VLC may take a little while to load; be patient.
Use the F key for full screen and the arrow keys to lower the volume.
Connecting your computer with a wired network also improves smoothness.
Troubleshooting
- VLC won't open the list or gives an error.
- Copy the link again (no spaces at the start/end); update VLC.
- The picture stutters.
- Check your connection speed; increase the network cache under Tools > Preferences > Input / Codecs.
- Sound and picture are out of sync.
- Use the Audio > Audio Synchronisation setting or restart the channel.
- The channel order is mixed up.
- In the playlist, sort "by title" or use an IPTV app that supports categories.
- I'd like an app recommendation.
- Write your computer type on WhatsApp and we will tell you the right player.
After setup
- Open a few channels and check the picture and sound.
- Star your favourite channels in the player to make a short list.
- Note down the details in a safe place; do not share your subscription with others.