Format guide
M3U, Xtream Codes and Stalker: what is the difference?
These are three ways a media provider can give a player access to a user-authorized channel and VOD catalogue. The credentials look different, but Tuvora can accept all three.
| Format | What you receive | How to recognize it | Tuvora guide |
|---|---|---|---|
| M3U | A playlist URL or local .m3u file | Often one long URL, sometimes ending in get.php or .m3u | Add M3U |
| Xtream Codes | Server URL, username and password | Three separate fields; a get.php URL may contain the same values | Add Xtream |
| Stalker | Portal URL and MAC address, sometimes extra device identifiers | Credentials intended for a MAG-style set-top box | Add Stalker |
Which one should you choose?
Use the format your provider officially supports. Xtream Codes normally exposes separate live, movie, series and guide endpoints. M3U is widely compatible and can also be stored as a local file. Stalker is appropriate when the service was issued for a portal-and-MAC device workflow.
Changing the login format does not improve the underlying stream quality. Picture quality, availability and buffering primarily depend on the source, network and playback compatibility.
Protect your credentials
Playlist URLs can contain usernames, passwords or tokens. Do not paste them into public support posts, screenshots, analytics tools or comparison sites. Tuvora support will never need your provider password to explain the setup screens.