By IPTV Harmony support team. Published . Written by the IPTV Harmony support team, who handle setup questions from customers. Steps are re-checked when the apps change.
What is the difference between Xtream Codes and M3U?
Both give a player access to the same IPTV Harmony subscription. Xtream Codes is a login of three parts: a username, a password and a server address. M3U is a single long link to a playlist file. Xtream Codes is usually better, because the player loads the programme guide, films and series automatically and the login is easier to update.
Your welcome email includes both. MAG and Formuler boxes can also use a third format: a MAC portal.
When should you use Xtream Codes?
Use Xtream Codes whenever your player offers it. That covers TiviMate, IPTV Smarters Pro, IPTVX, GSE Smart IPTV and most modern players. The benefits:
- The programme guide (EPG) loads without extra links.
- Films and series appear in their own sections.
- If the server address ever changes, you only edit one field.
When should you use an M3U link?
Use M3U when a player doesn't support Xtream Codes, for example VLC on a computer, or when a TV player asks you to add a playlist on its website. Some players also need a separate EPG link for the guide; ask us if yours does.
What is a MAC portal?
A MAC portal links the subscription to your box's hardware address instead of a username and password. You send us the MAC address, we register it, and you enter the portal address on the box. It is the standard way to use MAG boxes and works well on Formuler. Supported formats for IPTV Harmony: Xtream Codes login, M3U playlist or MAC portal.
How do you avoid login errors?
Most "invalid login" messages come from small typing mistakes:
- Copy and paste instead of typing whenever you can.
- Keep http:// at the start of the server address and the :port number at the end if your email shows one.
- Check for a space at the end of a pasted username or password.
- Watch for lookalike characters: a zero and the letter O, a lowercase l and the number 1.
- Don't add a slash at the end of an Xtream Codes server address unless your email shows one.
If it still fails, send our team a screenshot of the login screen (hide the password) and we'll spot the problem.