> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.cstplus.org/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.cstplus.org/readme.md).

# Welcome to CST+

CST+ is a self-hosted platform for running 24/7 linear IPTV and FAST channels. You install it on your own server, point it at a folder of video files, and it broadcasts a continuous channel with an EPG, viewer access control, and a full admin panel.

***

### What do you need help with?

{% hint style="success" %}
**New to CST+?** Start with Installation, then follow the Getting Started section from top to bottom. You will have a live channel within the first session.
{% endhint %}

{% hint style="info" %}
**Setting up a specific feature?** Go to Guides. Each guide covers one feature end to end: schedule mode, ad insertion, fleet, security, EAS.
{% endhint %}

{% hint style="warning" %}
**Something not working?** Go to Troubleshooting. Start with `cstplus status` and the logs section, then find your specific issue.
{% endhint %}

***

### Explore the docs

| Section         | What's inside                                              |
| --------------- | ---------------------------------------------------------- |
| Getting Started | Install, first run, create a channel, add viewers, go live |
| Guides          | Schedule mode, SSAI ads, fleet, security, EAS              |
| Features        | Analytics, media library, EPG, distribution, branding      |
| Troubleshooting | Installation, license, channels, streams, performance      |
| Self-hosting    | CLI reference, backup, logs, maintenance                   |
| API Reference   | Channels, lines, analytics, EAS, system                    |
| Changelog       | What changed in each version                               |

***

### How CST+ works

CST+ uses a **render-once, broadcast-forever** model:

1. You point a channel at a folder of video files
2. CST+ normalises everything into a uniform broadcast reel (the heavy work, done once)
3. The reel loops 24/7 as a continuous HLS stream, using roughly 1-2% of one CPU core and 54 MB of RAM per channel
4. Viewers connect through access lines with credentials, get an M3U playlist or Xtream login, and watch in any IPTV app

In schedule mode, the reel is a 24-hour day programme that repeats daily with real clock-aligned EPG times.

***

### Install command

```bash
curl -fsSL https://install.vxdgroup-cloud.xyz/install.sh | sudo bash -s -- --key YOUR_LICENSE_KEY
```

Supported: Ubuntu 22.04/24.04, Debian 11/12, x86\_64 and ARM64.


---

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