STRM File Extension

What is STRM file?

Files with the .STRM extension contain settings for the Plex Media Server, saved in a textual format. Originally utilized by the Plex software, support for this format was discontinued in the 2018 version. Files with the .STRM extension enable the playback of audio or video streams directly from the URL saved within the file. Kodi software also uses files with this extension.

Creating and Content of STRM Files

.STRM files can be created with a simple text editor. One needs to create a file with the .TXT extension and then change it to .STRM. The file should contain a direct stream URL address in the format:

• http://host/path/stream;
• mms://host/path/stream;
• rtsp://host/path/stream;
• or another format supported by the software.

The Plex Media Server software allows turning a home computer into a multimedia server. Thanks to .STRM files, it is possible to create a complete multimedia library using online sources.

Playing Internet Streams

Audio or video streams, directed by .STRM files, can be played using the appropriate play command on the server. If the intention is to create a playlist with these files, it is necessary to gather them in one directory and add the entire folder as a source to the software. It's possible that the stream might not work, usually due to an incorrect URL, an unsupported codec, or a protocol not recognized by the software.

Programs which support STRM file extension

Programs that can handle STRM files are as follows. Files with STRM suffix can be copied to any mobile device or system platform, but it may not be possible to open them properly on target system.

Updated: 02/29/2024

How to open file with STRM extension?

There can be multiple causes why you have problems with opening STRM files on given system. Fortunately, most common problems with STRM files can be solved without in-depth IT knowledge, and most importantly, in a matter of minutes. The list below will guide you through the process of addressing the encountered problem.

Step 1. Get the Plex Media Server

The main and most frequent cause precluding users form opening STRM files is that no program that can handle STRM files is installed on user’s system. The solution to this problem is very simple. Download Plex Media Server and install it on your device. The full list of programs grouped by operating systems can be found above. The safest method of downloading Plex Media Server installed is by going to developer’s website (Plex Media Center Team) and downloading the software using provided links.

Step 2. Verify the you have the latest version of Plex Media Server

If the problems with opening STRM files still occur even after installing Plex Media Server, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software. Check the developer’s website whether a newer version of Plex Media Server is available. Sometimes software developers introduce new formats in place of that already supports along with newer versions of their applications. If you have an older version of Plex Media Server installed, it may not support STRM format. All of the file formats that were handled just fine by the previous versions of given program should be also possible to open using Plex Media Server.

Step 3. Associate Plex Media Server Settings files with Plex Media Server

After installing Plex Media Server (the most recent version) make sure that it is set as the default application to open STRM files. The method is quite simple and varies little across operating systems.

Change the default application in Windows

• Choose the Open with entry from the file menu accessed by right-mouse clicking on the STRM file
• Select Choose another app → More apps
• The last step is to select Look for another app on this PC option supply the directory path to the folder where Plex Media Server is installed. Now all that is left is to confirm your choice by selecting Always use this app to open STRM files and clicking OK.

Change the default application in Mac OS

• Right-click the STRM file and select Information
• Open the Open with section by clicking its name
• Select the appropriate software and save your settings by clicking Change all
• If you followed the previous steps a message should appear: This change will be applied to all files with STRM extension. Next, click the Continue button to finalize the process.

Step 4. Verify that the STRM is not faulty

Should the problem still occur after following steps 1-3, check if the STRM file is valid. Being unable to access the file can be related to various issues.

1. Check the STRM file for viruses or malware

If the STRM is indeed infected, it is possible that the malware is blocking it from opening. It is advised to scan the system for viruses and malware as soon as possible or use an online antivirus scanner. If the scanner detected that the STRM file is unsafe, proceed as instructed by the antivirus program to neutralize the threat.

2. Verify that the STRM file’s structure is intact

Did you receive the STRM file in question from a different person? Ask him/her to send it one more time. It is possible that the file has not been properly copied to a data storage and is incomplete and therefore cannot be opened. When downloading the file with STRM extension from the internet an error may occurred resulting in incomplete file. Try downloading the file again.

3. Verify whether your account has administrative rights

Sometimes in order to access files user need to have administrative privileges. Log in using an administrative account and see If this solves the problem.

4. Make sure that the system has sufficient resources to run Plex Media Server

The operating systems may note enough free resources to run the application that support STRM files. Close all running programs and try opening the STRM file.

5. Ensure that you have the latest drivers and system updates and patches installed

Up-to-date system and drivers not only makes your computer more secure, but also may solve problems with Plex Media Server Settings file. Outdated drivers or software may have caused the inability to use a peripheral device needed to handle STRM files.

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