Plain-text media stream reference used by Plex, Kodi and other media-center applications
File type: Digital video and movie file
An STRM file is a plain-text reference to a media resource rather than a container for the audio or video itself. It commonly contains a single URL, network location, or local filesystem path.
Plex Media Server, Kodi, and some other media-center applications can use STRM files to access referenced content when the files are placed in a configured media library. The contents can be viewed or edited with any plain-text editor.
File type category:
Digital video and movie file
Date updated: August 2, 2026
The STRM format has no single formal specification. In common Plex and Kodi workflows, the file contains one playable media address on its own line. Depending on the application and operating system, the address may be an HTTP or HTTPS URL, a network share, or a local path.
An STRM file is only a pointer: it does not embed, cache, or protect the referenced media. Playback therefore depends on the address remaining valid, the server having appropriate permissions and network access, and the media-center software supporting the referenced container, codec, and streaming protocol. Plex may direct-play the media or transcode it when necessary.
STRM files are often created manually or generated by media-library management tools. Although their syntax is simple, path conventions and supported protocols vary between applications. A path written for Windows may need to be changed before use on macOS or Linux, particularly when it includes drive letters or network-share names.
The files are platform-independent plain text, while the software that uses them is platform-specific. Plex Media Server is available for Windows, macOS, Linux, and other supported platforms, and Kodi is available across major desktop operating systems and additional devices.
To inspect an STRM file, open it with a plain-text editor such as Notepad or Notepad++ on Windows, TextEdit in plain-text mode on macOS, or gedit, Kate, or another text editor on Linux. It will usually display a URL or path rather than playable media.
To use the file, place it in a folder included in a compatible Plex Media Server or Kodi library, then scan or refresh the library. Ensure that the application can reach the referenced resource and that the URL, path, permissions, and required protocol are valid.
STRM files are not normally converted because they contain references rather than media data. To create one, enter a complete supported stream URL or media path in a plain-text editor and save the file with the .strm extension. Desktop media-library tools can also generate STRM files automatically.
To create a conventional media file such as MP4 or MKV, use a compatible desktop tool such as FFmpeg to retrieve or transcode the referenced media, provided the stream is accessible and downloading or recording it is permitted. Online conversion services are generally unsuitable because they may process only the text reference and cannot access protected, private, or local media.
Software applications that can open strm files:
Microsoft Windows
Software apps that manage or store settings in strm files:
Microsoft Windows
Apple macOS / Mac OS X
Linux/Unix
Multiplatform
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