IPTV comes with its own vocabulary, and setup instructions often assume you already know it. This IPTV glossary explains the terms you are most likely to see, in plain English, so the next time an app asks for a Server URL or a guide mentions EPG, you will know exactly what it means.

The terms are grouped by topic: logging in, devices, the TV guide and on-demand content, and picture and sound.

You do not need to memorize anything. Keep this page bookmarked and come back to it whenever a setup screen or support message uses a word you have not seen before.

The Basics

IPTV

Internet Protocol Television. It means TV delivered over an internet connection instead of a cable or satellite signal.

Player App

The app you install on your device to watch IPTV, such as IBO Player Pro. It connects to the service and shows your channels, guide and on-demand content.

Subscription Email

The email you receive after purchase, containing the details you need to log in.

Logging In

Xtream Codes

A login format used by many player apps. It needs three details: Username, Password and Server URL. Our Xtream Codes login guide explains each one.

Server URL

The address your app connects to. It usually starts with http:// and may end with a port number after a colon.

M3U Link

A single web address that points to a playlist of channels. Some devices, such as Enigma2 receivers, use an M3U link instead of an Xtream Codes login.

Portal URL

The address a MAG box connects to. It replaces the Username, Password and Server URL used by apps.

MAC Address

A unique code that identifies a network device. MAG boxes are activated using their MAC address, which is printed on a sticker on the box. See our MAG box setup guide.

Devices

  • Fire TV Stick: Amazon’s streaming stick that plugs into a TV’s HDMI port and runs apps from the Amazon Appstore.
  • Smart TV: a TV with its own app store, such as Smart Hub on Samsung or the LG Content Store on LG.
  • MAG box: a set-top box built for IPTV that connects through a portal URL.
  • Enigma2: a Linux-based system used on many receivers, which can load an M3U playlist.
  • HDMI-CEC: a feature that lets one remote control several connected devices, such as turning on the TV with the Fire TV remote.

TV Guide and On-Demand

  • EPG: Electronic Program Guide, the on-screen schedule of what is on now and next. Learn more in our EPG TV guide walkthrough.
  • Channel group: a category that organizes channels, such as news or sports.
  • Favorites: your own short list of channels you watch most.
  • VOD: Video on Demand, movies and shows you can start at any time.
  • Series: on-demand shows organized by season and episode.

Picture and Sound

  • 4K or UHD: a resolution with four times as many pixels as Full HD.
  • HDR: High Dynamic Range, which widens the range of brightness and color.
  • Frame rate: how many images are shown per second. Some devices can match the TV to the frame rate of the content.
  • Motion smoothing: a TV feature that adds frames to make fast motion look smoother, with names such as TruMotion or Auto Motion Plus.
  • Surround sound: audio sent to several speakers, usually through a soundbar or receiver.

Putting the Terms Together

Here is how the terms fit into a typical setup on a Fire TV Stick or Smart TV:

  1. You install a player app from your device’s app store.
  2. You log in with Xtream Codes, using the Username, Password and Server URL from your subscription email.
  3. The app loads your channels, channel groups and EPG.
  4. You add your regular channels to favorites and explore VOD and series.

Our IPTV setup checklist walks through the same process in more detail.

Network Terms

  • Router: the device that connects your home to the internet and shares the connection over Wi-Fi and cables.
  • Ethernet: a network cable connection, usually steadier than Wi-Fi.
  • 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz: the two common Wi-Fi bands. 5 GHz is usually faster at short range, while 2.4 GHz reaches further.
  • IP address: the number that identifies a device on your home network, used for example when connecting to an Enigma2 receiver.
  • Firmware or software update: an update for your device’s own system, which often improves app support.
  • PIN: a short code used to lock apps or settings, for example with parental controls.

Troubleshooting: When the Terms Do Not Match

The App Asks for Something Not in My Email

Apps label fields differently. Host or Server usually means Server URL, and Playlist URL usually means M3U link. If you are still unsure, contact our support team.

My Device Has No Username Field

You may be using a device that connects through a portal, such as a MAG box, or a playlist, such as Enigma2. Check your device on our installation page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Xtream Codes the same as an M3U link?

No. Xtream Codes uses three fields, while an M3U link is a single playlist address. Both can load your channels, depending on the app.

What does EPG stand for?

Electronic Program Guide. It is the TV guide showing what is on now and next.

Why does a MAG box need a MAC address?

The MAC address identifies the box, so it is used to activate the service for that device.

Do I need to learn all of these terms before I start?

No. Most people only need a handful during setup: player app, Username, Password and Server URL. The rest become familiar as you use the service.

Speak the Language of IPTV

With these terms in hand, setup instructions become much easier to follow. When you are ready to get started, compare our plans.