IPTV (Internet Protocol Television) is TV delivered over the internet instead of through cable or satellite. An IPTV service streams live channels, movies and series to an app on your TV, streaming stick, phone or computer. You need three things: an internet connection, a device, and an IPTV subscription with a player app.
How IPTV works
With cable, channels travel through a coaxial wire to a box rented from your provider. With IPTV, the same kind of video is sent as data over your internet connection. An IPTV player app requests the channel you pick and plays it instantly, just like a video on demand.
The term covers several types of service (see the Wikipedia overview of IPTV):
- Live TV — channels broadcast in real time, with a TV guide (EPG).
- Video on demand (VOD) — movies and series you start whenever you want.
- Catch-up / time-shift — watch programs that aired earlier.
What you need to watch IPTV
- Internet — 10 Mbps for HD, 25 Mbps for 4K.
- A device — Firestick, Android TV box, smart TV, Apple TV, phone or computer (see all devices).
- A player app — TiviMate, IPTV Smarters, SmartOne, etc.
- A subscription — the service that provides the channels, like IPTVMaple.
IPTV vs cable vs streaming services
- vs cable — no rented box, no technician, no contract; usually far cheaper, with many more channels.
- vs Netflix-style apps — those are on-demand only; IPTV adds live TV, news and sports.
IPTV words you’ll see
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| EPG | Electronic program guide — the TV guide grid |
| M3U | A playlist link containing your channels |
| Xtream Codes | A login with server URL, username and password |
| VOD | Video on demand — movies and series |
| Connections | How many devices can play at the same time |
| Anti-freeze | Server technology that reduces buffering |
How to get started
The easiest way to understand IPTV is to try it. Request the free 24-hour trial, install an app on your TV, and our team will walk you through it on WhatsApp.
