> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://ghost-cable.gitbook.io/ghost-cable-docs/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://ghost-cable.gitbook.io/ghost-cable-docs/mag-and-formuler-boxes-setup-guide.md).

# MAG & Formuler Boxes Setup Guide

For streamers who want a traditional, lag-free cable box experience, MAG and Formuler devices are the industry gold standards. These dedicated hardware boxes use a protocol called Stalker Middleware or Portal connections.

Unlike general streaming sticks that use a traditional username and password login, these boxes lock your subscription directly to the device’s physical hardware ID, known as the MAC Address. The channel streaming content cannot be accessed until your provider manually activates this hardware ID on their backend server panel.

### Part 1: Locating Your MAC Address / ID

Before configuring any software settings on the screen, you must first find the correct hardware code to send to your IPTV provider.

#### For MAG Boxes (e.g., MAG 322, 420, 524)

1. Turn the physical MAG box upside down.
2. Look for the printed barcode sticker on the bottom of the casing.
3. Locate the text string labeled MAC. It will always start with `00:1A:79` (e.g., `00:1A:79:XX:XX:XX`).

> ⚠️ Warning: Your MAG box might also display a separate sequence labeled "S/N" (Serial Number). Do not send the serial number—providers only need the `00:1A:79` string.

#### For Formuler Boxes (e.g., Z8, Z10, Z11, Z mini)

Formuler devices have an integrated native application called MYTVOnline (versions 1, 2, or 3 depending on your box model).

1. Open the MYTVOnline application.
2. Look at the top right-hand corner of the boot screen or open the Connections / Content Sources menu.
3. Locate the identifier labeled ID or MAC-ID:
   * On older Formuler models, this will start with `00:1A:79`.
   * On newer models (like the Z11 Series using MYTVOnline 3), Formuler utilizes a custom hardware profile starting with `00:1E:B8`.
4. Copy this exact ID string down completely.

### Part 2: Activating the Line With Your Provider

Once you have your MAC Address or Formuler ID, you must register it before attempting to launch the connection, or you will be met with a `462/463 MAG Invalid` or `452 Blocked` system error.

1. Email, message, or open a support ticket with your IPTV supplier.
2. Provide them with your exact MAC Address or Formuler ID (use capital letters and include the colons, like `00:1A:79:A1:B2:C3`).
3. Your provider will bind this ID to an active line on their server panel.
4. Once activated, your provider will send you back a specialized link called a Portal URL (which looks similar to `[http://provider-domain.com:8080/c/](http://provider-domain.com:8080/c/)`).

### Part 3: Entering the Portal URL

With your hardware ID activated on the backend server network, you can now safely map the connection link directly on your device.

**1.Open the Connection Profiles:**Step 1.

Launch the app profile:

* *On MAG:* Boot the box without an internet cable attached to get to the "Inner Portal" dashboard screen, then select Settings > Portals.
* *On Formuler:* Launch MYTVOnline, hit the Menu button on your remote, and choose Connections (or Content Manager > Content Sources).

**2.Select Add Portal:**Step 2.

Click on Add Portal or select Edit Portal 1 to open the network parameter fields.

**3.Input the URL Configuration Link:**Step 3.

Leave the username and password fields completely blank. Navigate to the Portal URL row and use your remote keyboard to type in the exact address link sent by your provider letter-for-letter. Give the profile an easily recognizable nickname like "Home TV".

**4.Save and Establish Connection:**Step 4.

Press the Save, OK, or Connect button on your remote interface.

### 🛠️ Troubleshooting Connection Fails

If your box freezes on a yellow loading bar or states "Your account is blocked/unauthorized," check these two critical configuration bottlenecks:

* The Slash Rule: Look closely at the Portal URL link your provider sent. If it ends with a forward slash (`/c/`), you must type that slash on your screen. If it doesn't have it, don't add it. Missing a trailing character causes a database mismatch.
* The Portal Conflict: A MAC address can only be active on one provider server at a time. If you are changing to a new service provider, you must make sure your previous seller has completely deleted your MAC address profile from their dashboard system, or the new server network will drop your device stream requests.