Kodi Guide Ultimate (Kodi Secret Tips)

The Ultimate Kodi Guide – Everything You Ever Wanted to Know!

[TechNadu] There are numerous reasons why Kodi is one of the favorite applications for millions of users around the world. This home theater software can be used as the ultimate source of entertainment. Just imagine having your entire collection of movies, TV shows, music, and photos stored in one place. Beyond that, you can use Kodi to stream online content and access a vast library of third-party data. Now imagine streaming those movies to your computer, smartphone, tablet, and even on your large-screen TV. All of those things are possible with Kodi, without a lot of tinkering. To help you get the most out of this amazing application, TechNadu has decided to bring you the Ultimate Kodi Guide.

The truth is that Kodi is a straightforward application. That might be visible as soon as you launch it since it brings an easy-to-use interface. However, you can find ‘hidden treasures’ behind every button and icon. You can learn these tricks only by reading an in-depth guide like this one. Don’t worry, we will take you through the entire application, step-by-step. Without further ado, let’s jump to TechNadu’s Ultimate Kodi Guide.

Disclaimer: The following software comes from official and unofficial sources. As such, it is publicly available and built for Kodi, which is based on open source software on its own. However, TechNadu doesn’t take responsibility for how our users decide to utilize the following software. Furthermore, please note that we don’t condone actions such as piracy or copyright infringement. Finally, TechNadu is in no way associated with the software mentioned on this page. Please read the above-said disclaimer carefully and make sure to use this software properly.

Ultimate Kodi Guide: An Overview

Before we start with explanations of different features, let’s take a moment to let you know what to expect. This guide will tell you what is Kodi and how it can be used. Then, we’ll talk about different features of Kodi like how to import your collection of media. We also shouldn’t forget to teach you how to use third-party addons and repositories. At the end, we’ll see how to overcome technical difficulties and where to seek help. Here are some of the questions that we’ll answer:

• What is Kodi, in the first place?
• How to install Kodi on different devices and platforms?
• The importance of using a VPN application;
• How to use Kodi?
• What are repositories and add-ons?
• How to use customized skins and builds?
• How to overcome common issues?
• Staying in touch with other Kodi users.

Let’s begin our Ultimate Kodi Guide with the basics. We’ll see what Kodi is, as well as why people call it the ultimate live streaming application.

What is Kodi, in The First Place?

Kodi is one of the most popular home theater software. It has been around close to 15 years now and went through a lengthy development process. It was initially conceived as an application that extended Xbox’s capabilities. In the beginning, Kodi was used as a media player capable of playing different kinds of file types. However, it didn’t take long for Kodi (known as XBMC back then) to go beyond Microsoft’s gaming console.

It’s interesting to note that Kodi managed to fight other popular applications that already come preloaded with different operating systems. For example, OS X users had their iLife software until several years ago. Microsoft users can currently rely on different Windows 10 apps to play media. However, none of those applications are as powerful as Kodi. In fact, this is the only application that combines numerous different functions and allows users to play their entire collection of media files.

During the last 15 years, almost everything had changed regarding Kodi, expect one thing. Kodi has always been free-of-charge and always will be!

If you’d like to learn more about the basic features of Kodi, use our previously published guide named ‘What is Kodi?”. This is where you’ll learn about the basic terms you need to be aware of when using this application.

A Brief History of Kodi

We are sure that many of you will become advanced users and loyal fans of Kodi. This is why we’d like to take a moment to provide a lesson on a brief history of Kodi. If you’re not interested in knowing this, we are sure you’ll come back at a later time. After all, we couldn’t possibly publish our Ultimate Kodi Guide without covering this topic.

The truth is that we could write a lengthy e-book on the development history of Kodi. However, we don’t want to bother you that much. This is why we’ll highlight some of the important dates related to this software. Hopefully, this will help you understand how the latest version of Kodi came to be.

• October 2002: After working hard on building a brand-new media player, a team of two developers released the source code of their creation. These developers are Phil Burr and Albert Griscti-Soler. As soon as this happened, a large community of developers started experimenting with this code.
• December 2003: The application was renamed from Xbox Media Player to Xbox Media Center. This change was needed because the original application outgrew Xbox and was transformed into an incredibly capable multimedia center. The first version of the Xbox Media Center was released in April 2004.

• November 2008: A new name arrived – XBMC ‘Atlantis’. By now, this was the eight-major version of this application. Soon after that, the XBMC Foundation was established. This Foundation exists even today with its primary purpose of collecting funds for the continued development efforts.
• December 2010: Version 10.0 was released and brought one major change – third-party addons. Users were suddenly able of using add-ons from different developers around the world, expanding this software’s capabilities.
• December 2014: XBMC was renamed to Kodi, as we know this application today. One of the reasons for this change were legal troubles as a result of its previous name and its Xbox origins.
• July 2016: This is when we saw the first alpha version of Kodi 17.0 – ‘Krypton’ which was officially released in the first quarter of 2017. The newest version of Kodi is 17.4 – the one you can currently download from this application’s website.
• Q1/Q2 2018: We expect to see the next version of Kodi (18.0) – codenamed Leia, in the first half of 2018. This won’t be a major departure from the currently available version. However, numerous great features have already been announced. One of those is support for Windows 64bit.

Possible Uses of Kodi

You’ve probably heard that Kodi is an amazing solution when it comes to streaming. Even though this is true, you should know that this feature is only a small aspect of the entire application. We want you to see what Kodi really is, as well as to unlock its potential. This is why we’ll continue our Ultimate Kodi Guide with explanations of possible uses of Kodi.

The latest version of Kodi is capable of storing and using the following types of content and data:

• Movies and TV Shows: You can use Kodi to store and organize your library of movies and TV shows. These files are presented via large artwork images along with detailed information about each entry.
• Music: Kodi is a fully-functional music player. Once you get into this category, you will see that there are different ways to filter and sort music files. Album artworks are visible, along with information about artists, albums, and songs. Here’s how to add music to Kodi.

• Pictures: This is often one of Kodi’s underutilized features. Instead of keeping your library of photos in a separate application, you can use Kodi to store libraries and create photo albums.
• Live TV and PVR: Kodi is capable of acting as a TV box. You can watch live TV and even record movies and TV shows.
• uPnP is a feature that connects two computers running Kodi so each computer can use another computer’s content library. If you’re willing to do some tinkering, this can be an amazing solution to double your content library.
• Web Interfaces can be used within Kodi to connect to different services. For example, you can use them to install add-ons, connect to your home’s media HUB that uses Wi-Fi, or connect a remote controller.

• Addons, Skins, and Builds are third-party components. You can easily change how your Kodi looks like, as well as add different kinds of features and options not found in Kodi by default.

The Legality of Kodi

During the last couple of years, we all have heard about legal troubles of Kodi’s development team. In addition, numerous add-ons were forced to shut down due to legal reasons. This is why numerous individuals are wondering if Kodi is legal and safe for use.

Let’s break down this segment into two sections. This is because Kodi is comprised of two large components: its own code and third-party code.

Is It Legal to Use Kodi?

On its own, Kodi is legal and perfectly safe for use. Just like any application, you can download its installer, install the application, and use it without any restrictions. We assume you’re interested in Kodi because you have a large library of media files on your computer. Many of us buy and download movies, TV shows, and music from different online marketplaces and keep those files stored. Kodi is simply a tool used to store those files, organize them, and play them.

Is It Legal to Use Kodi for Streaming?

This is a legal gray area of Kodi. You’ve probably heard that numerous add-ons for Kodi offer the latest movies and TV shows. In this manner, using Kodi to stream the latest movies is the same as using a torrent client to download those files. Still, it’s important to understand that the law isn’t clear about this and can be different in various countries.

Some countries strictly prohibit using pirated content. In this way, using Kodi to stream pirated content is considered illegal. However, other countries don’t have clear laws regarding this. This is why streaming via Kodi is in the legal gray area.

As an important precautionary measure, a certain portion of Kodi users utilizes VPN applications. Continue reading to learn more about this type of software.

Use of Virtual Private Networks (VPNs)

Virtual Private Networks have been in use for several decades now. Initially, they were used in large business organizations to connect remote workers to private servers. Different computers were able to communicate within one network and share files. However, this technology has evolved during the last decade.

Today, VPN applications are used by individuals to connect to the Web in a safe way. The popularity of VPNs increased during the last couple of years with revelations about how Internet Service Provides use our Web browsing data. In case you didn’t know, ISPs are able to collect personal data and hand it over to government agencies. In addition, this data is often sold to advertisers who use that knowledge to target specific groups of Internet users.

When it comes to Kodi, VPNs are used to mask Internet activity. This is how Kodi users can avoid legal troubles that come with streaming. Since VPNs are encrypted networks and connections, Internet Service Providers aren’t able to see your Internet activity. Instead, they can only see how much data you have transferred, which isn’t of special interest to anyone.

You should also know that this type of software has other benefits. First of all, it can protect you against malicious attacks. This is especially true for those who use open Wi-Fi networks or connect to the Web using Wi-Fis found in hotels. VPNs are also helpful when it comes to watching region-restricted content, which is of high value in countries with tightly controlled websites.

To make this Ultimate Kodi Guide more helpful, we’d like to give you several pieces of advice on how to choose a VPN:

• No-Log Policies: It’s in your best interest that your Web browsing data isn’t stored on any server. After all, you are using a VPN to hide your online activities. Still, this shouldn’t be a concern since VPNs typically guarantee the safety of your privacy.
• Unlimited Bandwidth: Numerous VPNs that come free of charge don’t offer unlimited bandwidth. This means that you can’t use them freely without being afraid you’ll go over the previously defined limit.
• Fast Servers: Some VPNs can throttle your Internet connection by up to 50%. This is why it’s imperative to know if a chosen VPN can guarantee that you’ll maintain the speed of your Internet connection.
• Encryption Standards: Make sure to know if your Web browsing will be encrypted. This is the basic function of every VPN, so go beyond that and learn what kinds of encryption standards will be employed.

As we said earlier, TechNadu’s preferred VPN application is IPVanish. We have been using it for a while now to keep your Internet connections safe and secure. However, there are other choices out there (like Torguard, NordVPN, and ExpressVPN). Feel free to check out some of the available options and decide for yourself. For a more in-depth approach, here’s our article about the best VPNs for Kodi.

We would also like to point you towards other helpful articles on TechNadu. Click on any of the following links to explore more about Virtual Private Networks.

• What are Private Virtual Networks;
• TechNadu’s VPN Buyer’s Guide;
• A Guide to The Fastest VPN Applications;
• The Best Free VPNs;
• Additional reviews of VPN applications; VyprVPN and Tunnelbear.

How to Install Kodi on Different Devices

As you are about to see in our Ultimate Kodi Guide, this software is compatible with every popular desktop and mobile platform. However, not every installation of Kodi is the same. This is why we have published a series of in-depth guides. Still, you don’t need to be tech-savvy to install Kodi. Perhaps the most complicated method applies to Apple’s iOS platform. Nonetheless, we are sure you’ll manage to handle it if you use our guide.

What is important to know is that Kodi is being simultaneously developed for all supported platforms. This means that no matter what operating system you use, you will get the same Kodi version as any other user. The latest available version for all platforms is 17.6. You can expect the new major version to be published soon, so make sure to check for updates often.

When it comes to updating Kodi, you should know that this application doesn’t have an automatic update tool. Instead, you’ll have to download a new version and install it over your existing Kodi installation. In other words, make sure to come back to our installation guide once you’re ready to update.

Here are TechNadu’s guides to Kodi installations on different platforms:

• You can install Kodi on Windows by downloading a file from its official website and installing the application using that EXE file;
• Kodi is installed on MacOS using a mountable DMG file. All you need to know is how to download that file and install the application to your Applications folder;
• Installation of Kodi for Linux depends on what version of Linux you are using. We have covered a number of different versions in our installation guide;
• Interestingly enough, Kodi can be installed on a Raspberry Pi. If you’re not afraid of setting up your computer, go for it. This can be a tremendously fun and rewarding project.
• Speaking of fun projects, you can also install Kodi on a Firestick and use this application on your large-screen TV.
• Kodi for Android can be download using Google’s Play Store. This mobile platform is known for its openness, which is why you can also install different add-ons and customizations;
• Apple’s iOS isn’t as open as Android. This is why you can install Kodi on iOS by using several developer tools to sideload this app to your iOS device.
• A couple of weeks ago, Kodi became a native application for the Xbox platform. Here’s how to install Kodi on Xbox One (S and X);
• Finally, there is a number of media streaming devices capable of working with Kodi in one way or another. On this website, you can find how to install Kodi on Nvidia Shield TV, Razer Forge TV, Roku devices, as well as Apple TV.

What Are Kodi Boxes?

Another way to use Kodi is via Kodi hardware boxes. These are different kinds of devices that connect to your TV. A Kodi Box is a viable alternative to running this software on your computer if you want a dedicated home media device. What you also need to know is that they typically come with different kinds of remotes and controllers. This kind of input can enhance your user experience.

To check out the currently available Kodi Boxes, go to our in-depth guide on the best Kodi boxes. This is where you’ll get to know currently popular devices that are capable of running Kodi.

How to Use Kodi (A Beginner’s Guide)

As we hope you’ll realize by the end of this Ultimate Kodi Guide, this application is incredibly intuitive and easy to use. However, we believe you need some guidance to take advantage of every feature Kodi has to offer.

In general, there are several steps you need to make once you download Kodi. These can help you turn barebones Kodi into a powerful media center. Here’s how to do that:

• The first step consists of downloading and installing Kodi on your operating system;
• Then, you need to import your local library of content to Kodi. This will allow you to use this application to organize and play different kinds of media files;
• Next, don’t forget to take advantage of third-party addons, skins, and builds.These can be used to enhance your user experience and optimize Kodi for differently sized screens and input methods.
• Finally, make sure to check this application’s settings. This is where you can fine-tune Kodi and adjust it to your needs. Some options can be disabled, while others can be utilized to gain better performance.

We won’t go over those steps here but we’ll explain them using additional resources found on TechNadu. This is because we will advise you to read our Beginner’s Guide to Kodi. This comprehensive article will help you learn the basic terms and functions of Kodi. On top of that, this is where you’ll learn some tips and tricks that can be used to optimize Kodi’s performance.

What Are Kodi Repositories and Add-ons?

You’ve probably heard a lot about repositions and add-ons for Kodi. For many of you, we are sure this is the main reason for being interested in this application. You’ll be happy to know that our editorial team at TechNadu has a lot of experience when it comes to this aspect of Kodi. This is why we’ll include numerous helpful links in the segment of your Ultimate Kodi Guide.

The biggest problem with add-ons is that they come and go. Very few addons stick for more than a year. This is because they are built and maintained by volunteer developers. This requires a lot of effort on their part, making it easy to understand why add-ons tend to disappear. As you can see, articles like this one can be of great help.

First, let’s take a look at what are repositories and what are add-ons:

• Repositories, as their name says, are collections of different add-ons. First, you first need to install an online-based repository to your Kodi. Then, you need to access that repository within Kodi to install specific add-ons. For more information, here’s our overview of the currently popular repositories.

• Add-ons can be seen as applications for Kodi. Some of them provide access to different types of content, while others can be used as maintenance tools.

When it comes to trustworthy and fully-working add-ons, these are hard to find. This is why our Ultimate Kodi Guide will contain resources to our favorite collections of addons.

• If you’re interested in keeping up with live TV channels from around the world, take a look at the best Live TV Kodi addons.
• Those of you interested in live sports can find numerous helpful live sports addons for Kodi. Furthermore, there are more specific collections of addons like NFL-oriented addons as well as boxing add-ons. Not to mention, we have also covered WWE and MLB as well. There is even something for those who enjoy watching UFC on Kodi, or those who plan on watching football on Kodi.
• Watching movies on Kodi is a pleasure. Make sure to check out the currently popular movie-related addons. Many of these are able of streaming HD content to Kodi.
• Kodi can be used as a home media center. This is why we should forget to recommend the best cartoon Kodi addons.
• When it comes to grown-up content, there is a number of popular adult addons for Kodi.
• Finally, there are region-based add-ons. No matter if you’re interested in an exotic cinematography or want to expand your knowledge of different cultures, you won’t be disappointed. We recommend checking our recommendations on Chinese movies and TV channels, Korean add-ons, or add-ons dedicated to Bollywood movies. Among recently published articles, you will also find the best Tamil Kodi addons as well.

For more information, we recommend checking out the very best addons for Kodi. We try to keep this article updated at all times – so that’s you’ll find the most up to date information.

What are Kodi Skins and Builds?

Aside from using add-ons, you can customize Kodi in different ways. This is why we mustn’t forget to mention skins and builds for this amazing application.

• Skins are able of transforming your Kodi’s interface. They don’t bring any new features but instead change the overall layout. However, it’s impressive what some of the best Kodi skins can do. Note that some are more suitable for large screens, while others are great for smartphones and tablets.

• Builds also change how your Kodi looks like. However, you can think of them as combinations of skins and builds. When you install a build, Kodi’s interface will completely change. In addition, you will be granted access to different addons. Some of the most popular builds are the Misfit Mod Lite, Boom Shakalaka, Jayhawk Build, and Kryptikz ZT.

Here are additional resources that you might find helpful:

• Check out the most popular builds for Kodi;
• Learn how to remove a build.

Troubleshooting: Common Issues with Kodi

Even though Kodi is a stable and reliable software, issues may arise at some point. The good news is that the majority of those can be fixed in under one minute.

• Some of the most frequent issues are connected to streaming. For example, when a stream doesn’t start playing or when it has problems with buffering. This is why you need a helpful guide that can be used to help you to troubleshoot. We are proud to include our own Kodi Troubleshooting Guide as part of TechNadu’s Ultimate Kodi Guide. This guide is trying to explain the causes of different issues, as well as to provide a number of different solutions.
• We’d also like add that you need to take proper care of your Kodi. This includes running maintenance scripts and clearing out junk files. One of the most useful maintenance add-ons is Indigo. Use the provided link to learn how to add Indigo as well as what kinds of features it brings.
• We also know that many of you have encountered a ‘Failed to Install a Dependency’ issue. In case you’re one of those Kodi users, don’t forget to check out the recommended link.

Reach Out to Fellow Kodi Users

Hundreds of thousands of individuals use Kodi on a daily basis. This is why you can find active online communities of Kodi users. It’s interesting to note that these communities can be quite helpful. This is where you can learn about the latest Kodi addons. Furthermore, your fellow Kodi users are more than happy to help you with any technical difficulties.

Here are some of the most active communities:

• Official Community Forum: With over 300,000 registered users, there’s always something interesting to check out. This is the official forum of Kodi, where people share ideas about possible uses of Kodi. In addition, this is where you can see the latest announcement from the development team behind this software.

• Reddit – Kodi: If you are a regular Reddit user, this option might seem like the best idea to get involved. However, this community is about the official Kodi add-ons. If you’re looking to connect with developers of third-party addons, check out our next suggestion.
• Reddit – Kodi Addons: This is where you can discuss third-party addons. Around 40,000 users participate on a monthly basis, which means there’s always something new to learn.

This is where we’d like to conclude our Ultimate Kodi Guide. We sincerely hope that we managed to cover everything you want to know about this home theater software. We also hope that you used links placed throughout this article for additional resources found on TechNadu.

Is there anything you’d like to add? If there’s something unclear or if you’re having issues with Kodi, don’t hesitate to let us know. Post a comment, and you’ll receive an answer from our editorial team.