How to view Kodi log files

If you’ve encountered that dreaded message, “One or more items failed to play, check the log file for details” you may be wondering how in the world these mysterious Kodi log files can be found. And even if you can find them, it may not be obvious what to do with them.

So, how exactly do you view log files in Kodi? And once you do, how can you fix any errors that have occurred?

The truth is there are many different causes of this error message. To give us the best chance of finding out what’s wrong, we can check the log files directly. Some support forums may even ask you to include your log file with any requests for help since they’re so valuable for troubleshooting problems.

How to install Log Viewer for Kodi

There is actually an addon in the official repo created specifically to help you view Kodi log files.

Here’s how install the Log Viewer for Kodi addon:

1. Open Kodi and click Add-ons in the menu on the left
2. Click Download
3. Select Program add-ons
4. Scroll down and click on Log Viewer for Kodi
5. Hit Install. In a few seconds, you’ll get a message that the addon is installed
6. Go back to the program addons list and click Log Viewer for Kodi again.
7. This time, click Run, then Show Log

How to upload your Kodi log

You’ll often see people upload their Kodi logs to forums with the hopes of getting help for technical problems. However, Log Viewer for Kodi doesn’t allow you to do this directly, and won’t even let you copy and paste the important parts. Don;t worry, though: this functionality is only a few clicks away.

Follow these steps to upload your Kodi log to the internet for easier sharing:

1. Click Add-ons on the left of Kodi’s main screen
2. Select Download, then Program add-ons
3. Find Kodi Logfile Uploader and install it
4. Open this addon and click the upload button
5. Scan the QR code or enter the URL into your browser’s address bar to be taken to a page with your full Kodi log file

Where are Kodi log files stored?

Using the log viewer is fine if you just want to find what the error message is. However, if you want to archive logs, automate certain aspects of your system maintenance, or simply upload a log manually, you’ll need to know where they are saved on your device.

Unfortunately, getting the log file in text form is a little more complicated since where it is located depends upon your operating system.

Here is a list of where to find the file in each OS.

• Windows: C:\Users\{your Windows username}\AppData\Roaming\Kodi\kodi.log
• Mac: /Users/{your username}/Library/Application Support/Kodi/kodi.log
• Linux: ~/.kodi/kodi.log
• iOS: /private/var/mobile/Library/Preferences/Kodi/kodi.log
• Android: {storage}/Android/data/org.xbmc.kodi/files/.kodi/temp/kodi.log
• OSMC: /home/osmc/.kodi/temp/kodi.log

Always use a VPN with Kodi

Before we start discussing how to fix problems with Kodi, it’s important to understand that every Kodi addon comes with risks. Luckily, you can protect yourself by connecting to a Virtual Private Network (VPN).

These services encrypt your data, hiding your activities from snoopers and helping to avoid ISP throttling. They also prevent most types of Man-in-the-Middle attack, making them a must-have for any privacy-conscious Kodi user. We recommend NordVPN. It’s a high-speed, no-logs VPN with exceptional streaming ability and a fantastic set of security tools. What’s more, you can try it completely risk-free as it comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Five simple strategies that effectively fix most errors found in Kodi log files

Now that you know how to view Kodi log files, how do you fix errors that show up in them? Some errors can only be solved by someone who has in-depth knowledge of coding. Luckily, most do not require this level of knowledge. So here are five simple strategies anyone can use to solve the most common errors.

Strategy #1: Update the addon you are using

Sometimes the developer of an addon discovers bugs after it is released. But for security reasons, you may have set up your Kodi not to automatically download updates. If so, you may not have the most up-to-date, error-free version of the add on.

In order to make sure that the newest version of the addon is installed on your Kodi, go to the menu where your addon is located and right-click it. Then, click Information, followed by Update.

Strategy #2: Use OpenWizard to clear your cache and delete old installation packages.

Old data stored in your cache and package folders can slow your Kodi down, sometimes causing errors in the process. These can be eliminated with a maintenance addon but we recommend OpenWizard because it’s easy to find, install, and use, plus it has a good reputation in the Kodi community.

To start, install OpenWizard (or your maintenance addon of choice). Click Maintenance, then Cleaning Tools, and finally, Clear Cache and Clear Packages.

Strategy #3: Update your version of Kodi

If your addon is updated and cache/packages cleared but you still see errors, it might be because you have an old version of Kodi that is using a newer, incompatible addon.

To find out if this is the case, click the gear icon. Then go to “system information.” You’ll see a lot of information about your Kodi media player. In the bottom-right corner is the version number. Make sure this is the same as the version displayed on Kodi’s download page.

Strategy #4: Update your dependencies

Another issue that may cause errors is dependencies that have not been updated. To find these, click on the gear icon and navigate to System settings → Add-ons → Manage dependencies. Look through the list and see if any of these showed up in the log file error message.

If so, update the offending dependency by right-clicking and selecting Information followed by Update.

Strategy #5: Factory reset your Kodi

If none of the previous strategies work, you may have to try something more radical. Factory resetting your Kodi will eliminate all of your addons, skins, and any other changes you’ve made to it since installing.

For this reason, a decision to factory reset your Kodi should not be taken lightly. But if nothing else works, this may be the only way to fix the problem without learning how to code.

To factory reset your Kodi, use the OpenWizard addon discussed in strategy #2. But click on Fresh Start. You’ll be given a warning, and if you click Continue, your Kodi installation will be returned to default settings.

Kodi log files: FAQs

See also:

• How install VPN on Fire Stick
• How to stop Kodi buffering
• Kodi not working? How to fix common Kodi problems