A relative URL is interpreted against the location of its containing resource. Moving a playlist from its web address to a local folder can therefore change what its entries mean. A stream that worked from the original location may fail from the copied file even though the visible relative text did not change.
Find the base location
An entry such as media/live.m3u8 needs a base URL to become a complete address. The original playlist’s location supplies that context during normal retrieval. A local file location supplies a different context after copying.
Do not guess the missing prefix
The correct base may include a path as well as a hostname. Adding only the domain can still produce the wrong address. Use the service’s complete supported playlist or documented resolution rules rather than reconstructing private paths from memory.
Preserve authorized access
A resolved address can still contain tokens or require a supported client request. Making a relative reference absolute does not create permission. Keep diagnostic copies private and return to the original source when possible.
A practical sequence
- Check whether entries are complete or relative URLs.
- Retain the original base location for diagnosis.
- Prefer the supported remote source over a relocated snapshot.
An example
An entry called segments/001.ts resolves differently under https://example.invalid/live/channel/ than under a local Downloads folder. The unchanged text identifies a different target.
Questions about this topic
Is a relative URL malformed?
No. It is valid when the correct base context is available.
Will moving the file always preserve playback?
No. Relative references can change meaning.
