The main sources
| Source | What it is | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Your IPTV provider | A guide file built for your channel list, usually available as XMLTV (for example via xmltv.php) | Nearly everyone: the IDs match your channels |
| Broadcast guide data | Listings sent inside the TV signal itself, as used by Freeview and satellite receivers | Aerial or satellite TV turned into network streams with software such as TVHeadend |
| Open-source grabbers | Community tools that build XMLTV files from published listings, such as the XMLTV project and iptv-org’s EPG grabbers | Technically confident users building their own guide |
| WebGrab+Plus | A tool that builds XMLTV files from TV-guide websites, using per-site configuration files | Custom guides for specific channels |
| Schedules Direct and EPG123 | A non-profit listings subscription, focused on North America, and a Windows tool that turns it into guide files | North American channels on home media servers |
Your provider’s guide comes first
A guide is only useful when each programme lands on the right channel. Your provider’s guide is built with the same channel IDs as your playlist, so matching works without effort. Try it before anything else, and see EPG URL for where to find it.
Building your own guide
People building a home media setup (a Plex or Jellyfin server, or aerial TV streamed around the home) often need their own guide. The general steps are:
- Choose a source that covers your channels and allows your use.
- Generate an XMLTV file with the tool, usually on a schedule, so the guide stays current.
- Make the channel IDs match, either by setting
tvg-idvalues in your playlist or by mapping channels in your media server. See missing channels. - Point your player or server at the file or its address.
Our guides to WebGrab+Plus and EPG123 walk through each tool.
Respect the data’s terms
Programme listings are compiled by broadcasters and listings companies, and websites set terms for how their pages can be used. Open-source grabbers leave that responsibility with the person running them. Check the terms of the source you use, especially for anything beyond personal use.