Guides

M3U / HLS Guide for Operators

How playlists and HLS delivery fit into an IPTV restream workflow — without inventing panel-specific commands.

Basics

What M3U and HLS are

M3U is a playlist format. Each entry typically names a channel and points to a stream URL (or related resource) that a player or server can request.

HLS (HTTP Live Streaming) delivers live or on-demand media as a sequence of short segments, usually described by a media playlist. Many IPTV panels and players understand HLS URLs referenced from an M3U.

Together, operators often receive an M3U that lists live channels, with each entry resolving to an HLS (or similar HTTP) stream their server can pull.

M3U role

Catalogue / lineup file your panel imports so channels appear as selectable sources.

HLS role

Segmented live delivery the server requests when a channel is actively pulled.

Concepts

Playlist concepts for operators

Useful mental model when wiring Restream into your own stack.

Playlist file or URL

An accessible M3U (file download or remote URL) that lists channel entries for your panel.

Channel metadata

Names, groups, and logos (when provided) help operators organise lineups inside the panel.

Stream endpoints

Each active entry points at a media URL. Your server requests that URL when the channel is pulled upstream.

Concurrent pulls

Open stream requests consume connections. A large playlist alone does not equal a large connection bill.

Workflow

Typical operator path

High-level steps that apply across most panels. Exact clicks and fields vary by software.

1

Receive access

After trial arrangement or paid activation, support provides playlist access details for your approved setup.

2

Import playlist

Add the M3U in your panel or media server using that product’s playlist/source import feature.

3

Pull selectively

Open only the channels you need concurrently so usage stays within your connection package.

Verification

Panel-specific instructions

Software panels differ in menus, API fields, and how they map M3U attributes. Publishing unverified CLI commands or screenshots for a specific brand can mislead operators.

Status: Panel-specific step-by-step instructions are pending verification. Until verified docs are published, ask WhatsApp or Telegram support which import method fits your panel version.

General concepts on this page remain valid regardless of panel brand.

Pending verification

No invented Xtream Codes, Flussonic, or other vendor-specific commands are listed here. Request confirmed steps from support when needed.

Security

Do not share credentials publicly

Keep playlists private

Do not post M3U URLs, tokens, or login details on forums, social media, or public tickets.

Respect IP whitelisting

Paid access is limited to approved public IPv4 addresses. Unexpected sources should not receive your credentials.

If access leaks

Contact support promptly on WhatsApp so access can be reviewed and, if appropriate, rotated or restricted.

Access reminder

Trial and paid delivery

Trial access lasts 12 hours with up to 10 concurrent connections; timing begins on first playback. A second trial may be available on request; country restrictions may apply.

Paid plans require public IPv4 whitelisting and manual activation after payment verification. Delivery remains M3U / HLS for operator integration.

FAQ

M3U / HLS questions

Streams are provided in common M3U / HLS forms for typical IPTV panels and media servers. Exact import UI steps depend on your software.

Need help importing your playlist?

Message WhatsApp with your panel type and whether you need a trial or paid activation. Telegram is available as a secondary channel.