tvheadend
tvheadend/tvheadend
A powerful TV streaming server for Linux that converts TV signals into network streams and records programs, letting you watch TV on any device.
Tvheadend is the leading TV streaming server for Linux with ATSC, DVB-C/C2, DVB-S/S2, DVB-T/T2, IPTV, SAT>IP and unix pipe input sources
AI Summary
What This Project Does
Simply put, it is server software that turns traditional TV signals into network streams. You install it on a Linux machine, connect your TV box or IPTV source, and everyone can watch via phone, tablet, or computer.
What Problems It Solves
It solves the pain point of "TV can only be watched in one place." Previously, with one set-top box, the whole family fought for the remote. With this, signals are digitized and shared on the LAN, allowing everyone to watch independently. It also comes with DVR functions to automatically record shows you want, supporting rewind and pausing live TV.
Who It's For
- ā¢Users with TV cards, DVB receivers, or IPTV sources at home
- ā¢Geeks who enjoy tinkering with NAS or self-built media libraries
- ā¢Enthusiasts who want to watch live TV via players like Kodi
- ā¢Users who want to control TV content without ads
Typical Use Cases
- ā¢Watch home cable TV live on your phone at work
- ā¢Automatically record evening news or dramas for playback anytime
- ā¢Serve as a backend for Kodi or Jellyfin to provide live streams
- ā¢Share satellite TV signals within the LAN to multiple devices
Key Strengths & Highlights
- ā¢Supports an extremely rich set of protocols, covering almost all mainstream TV sources
- ā¢Active community for years, high stability, suitable for long-term running
- ā¢Supports Docker deployment, installation is simpler than direct compilation
- ā¢Comprehensive EPG support, automatically matches program information
Getting Started Requirements
- ā¢Requires a Linux computer, NAS, or Raspberry Pi to run
- ā¢Configuring TV sources (e.g., DVB, IPTV) has a learning curve, beginners need to read docs
- ā¢No programming skills needed, but requires basic network configuration knowledge
Purpose
Suitable for users who want to build a home theater, integrate TV resources, and share live TV across multiple devices. Not suitable for ordinary users who just want to watch streaming platforms (like Netflix) or lack hardware TV sources (like set-top boxes, antennas).
Category
Project Info
- Primary Language
- C
- Default Branch
- master
- License
- GPL-3.0
- Homepage
- https://tvheadend.org
- Created
- Dec 30, 2010
- Last Commit
- 11 days ago
- Last Push
- 11 days ago
- Indexed
- Apr 18, 2026