Almost every failed first login comes down to one character in the wrong place. Understanding what each piece of your Pillar IPTV login does makes those mistakes easy to spot, and the same logic applies to almost any IPTV service.
If you are still waiting for your details, our getting started guide explains when and how they arrive.
The three pieces
- Server address: the web address of the server your app talks to. It starts with http:// or https://, then a domain name, and often ends with a colon and a port number such as :8080.
- Username: identifies your account on that server.
- Password: proves it is you. Together with the username it also tells the server how many screens you are allowed to play at once.
Format 1: Xtream Codes (the one to use)
Most modern players offer an option called Xtream Codes, Xtream API or “login with username and password”. You type the three pieces into three boxes and the app fetches everything else on its own: live channels sorted into groups, films and series with posters, and the programme guide. When an app offers this option, choose it.
Format 2: the M3U playlist link
Some apps, including VLC and many TV-store players, want a single web address instead: a playlist link. On servers that use the common Xtream Codes software, that link is built from the same three pieces, and it usually looks like this:
http://your-server-address:port/get.php?username=YOURNAME&password=YOURPASS&type=m3u_plus&output=ts
Replace the server address, port, username and password with your own and keep everything else as it is. Some players prefer output=m3u8 instead of output=ts; if channels refuse to play, try switching it.
A playlist link carries the channel list but often not the posters, film menus or guide. That is why the Xtream Codes option is preferable whenever it exists.
The programme guide link
With an Xtream Codes login, the guide loads automatically. With a playlist link you may need to add a separate guide address (often labelled EPG or XMLTV). On the same kind of server it typically follows the pattern http://your-server-address:port/xmltv.php?username=YOURNAME&password=YOURPASS. If the guide stays empty, see the checklist for channels not loading, which covers guide problems too.
Set-top boxes use a portal instead
MAG and similar boxes do not use a username and password at all. They connect to a portal address, and the box is recognised by its MAC address, printed on a sticker underneath. If you use one of these boxes, give the help desk the MAC address so the account can be linked to it.
Typing mistakes that break logins
- A space copied at the start or end of the username or password.
- A missing http:// at the start of the server address, or a missing :port at the end.
- The letter O typed instead of the number 0, or a lowercase l instead of a capital I.
- Autocorrect capitalising the first letter of the username on a phone.
- Using the playlist link in an app’s Xtream Codes box, or the other way round.
The safest method is copy and paste. On a TV, use the app’s website or QR option if it has one, rather than typing with the remote.
Keep your login to yourself
A subscription is for personal use with the number of simultaneous screens you bought. If the login is shared beyond that, streams can be refused or the account suspended under the terms of service. Need more screens? The multiple connections page shows the two- and three-screen options, and the player app comparison helps you pick an app that uses the Xtream Codes format.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between Xtream Codes and M3U?
Xtream Codes uses three separate details (server address, username, password) and loads channels, films, series and the guide automatically. M3U is a single playlist link that mainly carries the channel list.
Where do I find my server address?
It is in the login message sent by email and on WhatsApp after your order, alongside your username and password.
Why does my app say invalid login?
Usually a typing error: an extra space, a missing http:// or port, or a capital letter added by autocorrect. Copy and paste the details, then try again.
Does a MAG box need a username and password?
No. MAG and similar boxes connect to a portal address and are identified by their MAC address instead.
