What Is Xtream Codes? How to Use Your Login Details
Euro Prime TV Editorial Team
Xtream Codes is an account-based login method used for IPTV access. Unlike playlist-based methods, the viewer is given three pieces of information instead of a file or a long address: server address, username and password. The player connects with these details and builds the channel list itself.
In this article we explain how this method works, which fields the login details consist of, how it is defined in a player and how these details should be stored.
What does account-based access mean?
In the playlist-based method the channels arrive on the device as a ready-made list. In the account-based method the player fetches the list itself by connecting with the account details given. The practical result of this approach is that there is no need to transfer a new file to the device when the list is updated.
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Server address: where the player will connect; it usually consists of a domain name and a port number.
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Username: the field that identifies the account.
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Password: the field that verifies access to the account.
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Player: connects with these three details and fetches the playlist and the programme guide.
Differences from the playlist method
Both methods serve the same purpose; the difference is in how the information reaches the device. The account method requires fewer steps when the device is changed or a new channel is added to the list.
| Topic | Playlist (M3U) | Account (Xtream Codes) |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | A single playlist address is entered | Server, username and password are entered |
| Playlist update | The address is fetched again | The player fetches the list when it connects |
| Changing device | The address has to be entered on the new device | The same details are entered on the new device |
| Player support | Widely supported | Used on players that support the fields |
| Ease of use | One field | Three fields |
How is it defined in the player?
Most players have a separate login screen for account details. The server address, username and password fields are filled in on this screen. Once the details are saved the player connects and lists the channels divided into categories.
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Choose the right field: find the Xtream Codes or account login option in the player.
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Enter the details in full: type the server address with the characters at the beginning and end.
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Pay attention to the password field: upper and lower case differences and copying errors from the screen are common.
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Save and test: once the connection is established, try opening a stream in a few categories.
Security of the login details
These three pieces of information give access to your account, so they should not be shared. Take care that the password is not visible when taking screenshots, do not leave the details permanently in messaging apps and, if you share your device with someone else, consider removing the account from the player.
When a change related to access is needed, contacting through the technical support channels is safer than sharing the details on open channels.
Which method in which situation?
For those who want to complete the setup as quickly as possible the account method may be practical; if you use a player that works with a playlist file, the M3U method is more suitable. A detailed comparison of the two methods is in the M3U vs Xtream Codes article, and the app-based steps are on the Xtream Codes setup page.
Which app supports which login method is decisive when choosing a player. For app comparisons, see the How to choose an IPTV player article.
Frequently asked questions
Is Xtream Codes a paid service?
This method is a form of access; the pricing is determined by the subscription coverage. Scope and duration information is on the relevant package page.
Why do the login details consist of three fields?
The player needs to find the server it will connect to, recognise the account and verify access. That is why the server address, username and password are requested separately.
I have lost the details, what should I do?
The details are linked to your account and need to be sent again. Creating a request through the technical support channels is enough.
Can two devices be watched with the same details?
It is technically possible; the number of devices that can be watched at the same time depends on the subscription coverage. If the simultaneous viewing limit is exceeded the stream may not open.
Sources
Official sources have been consulted for the technical statements in this article: ITU-T Y.1901 – Requirements for the support of IPTV services, ITU-T Y.1910 – IPTV architecture and functional requirements. These sources explain how broadcast technology generally works; for service scope and device support, see the relevant package and support pages.
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What Is M3U? How to Add an IPTV Channel List
