Add files from a network location in VLC

Question

I'm trying to add several video files to my playlist in VLC Media Player. These files are located in a network location and the "Add Files" option displays only local file locations. I tried using the IP address of device but that does nothing. Does anyone know how to do this?

Answer 1

You have at least three options:

1. Browse to ~/.gvfs

   Your network drive is mounted in your home directory in the hidden directory ~/.gvfs. You can browse there with the file browser from VLC or enter the appropriate path in the Add Files dialogue.

2. smbnetfs

   Will help you to mount your network directory to your home. By this any application will be able to access it (see also this answer).

3. ushare .

   Installs an UPnP server on the media server. VLC and other players are able to read files from there (the GUI stream2ip helps you to set it up)

Answer 2

You can also use "Advanced Open" instead of "Add file". This displays the full VLC open dialog--complete with a "Network" tab, rather than the system "File Open" dialog. Of course, you have to remember to "Enqueue" the file(s), rather than Play.