N_m3u8DL-RE is a cross-platform command-line stream downloader for DASH, HLS, and MSS protocols. It handles both on-demand and live streaming content across MPD, M3U8, and ISM manifest formats.
The tool addresses the need to download segmented video streams from various sources. It works by parsing manifest files to identify and download individual media segments, then reassembling them into a complete file. For live streams, it supports real-time recording and offers optional pipe-based muxing with FFmpeg to reduce intermediate file I/O, though this feature requires stable network conditions to avoid data loss.
Developers should choose this tool if they need reliable downloading of HLS or DASH streams on Windows, Linux, or macOS systems. It suits automation workflows and batch downloading scenarios where command-line operation is preferred. The project distinguishes itself through support for multiple streaming protocols in a single tool and live stream recording capabilities. Users on older Windows systems may need alternative terminals like cmder for compatibility. On Arch Linux, the tool is available through the AUR package repositories.
The project maintains active development with regular bug fixes and feature improvements distributed through automated builds. The maintainers provide detailed troubleshooting guidance in the README, directing users to check for the latest versions before reporting issues. Configuration flexibility is built in, allowing users to customize FFmpeg behavior for live pipe muxing through environment variables. The codebase is written in C# and distributed under the MIT License.
