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In one paragraph: IPTV is TV over the internet. You pay a subscription, add your login to an IPTV app on your TV, box, phone or computer, and watch live channels, sports, films and series. It usually costs a fraction of cable, the technology is legal, and the best way to judge a provider is to test it.
What is IPTV and how does it work?
Internet Protocol Television sends channels and videos from servers to an app on your device, instead of through a cable or dish. Our guide covers live TV vs VOD vs catch-up, M3U and Xtream Codes, the TV guide (EPG) and the speed you need. Read: What is IPTV?
Is IPTV legal?
The technology is legal and used by the biggest streaming TV services; what matters is whether a provider has the rights to its content. We explain the difference, the position of IPTV apps, and what to check. Read: Is IPTV legal?
How much does IPTV cost?
Typical prices by plan length, what changes the price, what a subscription includes, and a year-by-year comparison with cable. Read: IPTV cost in 2026
How to choose an IPTV provider
Seven checks — trial, stability, content, devices, support, pricing, business details — that you can run on any provider. Read: How to choose a provider
Next steps
- Ready to install? Setup guides for every device.
- Comparing options? Best IPTV buying guides.
- Something not working? IPTV troubleshooting.
Beginner questions
Where should a beginner start?
With What is IPTV?, then what it costs. When you are ready, a free trial shows you the rest better than any article.
Do I need special equipment for IPTV?
No. A Smart TV, streaming stick, phone or computer with a good internet connection is enough.
Is IPTV the same as streaming apps like Netflix?
Both use the internet, but IPTV subscriptions add live TV channels and sports to on-demand films and series.