Vlc-record-2021-05-24-16h17m26s-index-dvr.m3u8-...

Because live streams delete old segments as new ones are created (DVR style), stopping the recording often leaves you with a broken index pointing to files that no longer exist on the internet.

You are definitely not alone.

Go to the top menu and click > Convert / Save (or press Ctrl + R on Windows / Cmd + R on Mac). Click the Network tab at the top. vlc-record-2021-05-24-16h17m26s-index-dvr.m3u8-...

: The exact timestamp the record button was pressed (4:17 PM and 26 seconds).

: The exact date the recording was initiated (May 24, 2021). Because live streams delete old segments as new

If you clicked "Record" on a live stream years ago and ended up with a broken, unplayable file or a massive hard drive hog, 🔍 Breaking Down the Mystery File Name

Paste your .m3u8 live stream URL into the box and click the button at the bottom. Click the Network tab at the top

VLC is highly forgiving. Drag and drop the file directly into VLC. If it was a raw data dump, VLC might still be able to read the video frames.