Updated
Play Videos From an SMB Share on Android
Use an SMB source to browse and play videos stored on a NAS, Windows PC, Mac, or another server on your local network. Stream can scan selected SMB folders into the same movie and TV library as your local files.
Before You Begin
- Enable SMB file sharing on the computer or NAS.
- Note the server hostname or IP address and the share name.
- Make sure the Android device is on a network that can reach the server.
- Have a username, password, and domain ready if the share requires them.
Add the SMB Source
- Open File Source in Stream.
- Choose Add File Source, then select SMB under Network Share.
- Enter a recognizable name, such as
Living Room NAS. - Enter the server and share path, such as
192.168.1.20/media. - Enter the username, password, and domain only when the server requires them.
- Choose Add. Stream verifies the connection before saving it.
Stream can scan for SMB servers advertised on the local network. Tap a discovered server to fill its address, or enter the address manually when discovery does not find it.
Add SMB Folders to the Library
Open the saved SMB source, browse to a folder containing movies or TV shows, and select it for the media library. Start a scan when prompted. For better matching, use the recommended movie and TV file names.
Supported Scope
Stream connects to SMB shares over the network and plays supported media directly from the source. The server must remain online and reachable while browsing or playing content.
Common Problems
- No servers are discovered: Grant local-network access if requested, confirm Wi-Fi is enabled, or enter the server address manually.
- Connection failed: Check the IP address, share path, username, password, and optional domain.
- The server works on a PC but not Android: Check guest isolation, VPN rules, firewall settings, and whether TCP port 445 is reachable.
- Playback stops or buffers: Test closer to the router or use a wired connection for the server.
Privacy and Credentials
SMB credentials are used to access the share you configured. Passwords are not uploaded with Stream's Google Drive sync data and may need to be entered again on another device.