IPTV comes with its own set of terminology. This glossary covers the most common terms you will encounter when setting up and using an IPTV subscription.
M3U / M3U Playlist
A text file format that lists the stream addresses for all channels in an IPTV subscription. IPTV players read this file to display your channel list. See our full M3U playlist guide.
EPG (Electronic Programme Guide)
The interactive programme schedule displayed by your IPTV player — showing what is currently airing on each channel and what is coming up. Equivalent to the TV guide on a satellite or cable service. EPG explained →
Xtream Codes
A server-side IPTV system and API used by many providers. Login requires a server URL, username and password. Most modern IPTV players support Xtream Codes login. Xtream Codes explained →
VOD (Video On Demand)
On-demand video content — films and series that can be watched at any time, separate from the live channel schedule. Included in IPTV UK Hub subscriptions (170,000+ titles).
Catch Up TV
Access to recently broadcast programmes from supported channels, typically available for up to 7 days after broadcast. Catch Up TV explained →
Buffering
When an IPTV stream pauses to load more data, displaying a loading spinner. Usually caused by insufficient internet speed or an unstable connection. How to fix buffering →
Stream / Bitrate
The rate at which video data is delivered from the server to your device, measured in Megabits per second (Mbps). Higher bitrate means better picture quality but requires more bandwidth.
Codec
The algorithm used to encode and decode video. Common codecs in IPTV include H.264 (AVC), H.265 (HEVC — more efficient for 4K) and AV1. Your player and device must support the codec used by a stream to play it correctly.
HLS (HTTP Live Streaming)
A common IPTV delivery method that breaks video into small segments delivered over HTTP. Works across virtually all internet connections and devices.
RTMP
Real-Time Messaging Protocol — an older streaming protocol. Less common in modern IPTV but still used by some servers.
Portal URL
Used primarily for MAG set-top boxes — a web address entered into the box's settings that connects it to an IPTV service. Different from M3U URLs or Xtream Codes credentials.
MAG Box
A dedicated IPTV set-top box from Infomir that connects to a television via HDMI and is configured using a portal URL. MAG box setup →
PVR (Personal Video Recorder)
A feature in some IPTV players (notably TiviMate Premium) that allows you to record live IPTV streams to local USB storage for later viewing.
XMLTV
The XML-based data format used to deliver EPG information to IPTV player applications. Most players handle this automatically via Xtream Codes or an EPG URL.
SID / TSID
Service ID / Transport Stream ID — identifiers used to match EPG data to specific channels. Handled automatically by the server and player; relevant mainly for technical troubleshooting.
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