ubuntu kodi use other kodi database

3 min read 04-10-2024

Are you an avid Kodi user on Ubuntu looking to utilize an existing Kodi database? Whether you want to migrate to a new machine, share your media library across devices, or just have a backup of your current database, this guide will walk you through the steps to accomplish this. We will also address some common questions sourced from Stack Overflow, offering expert insights and practical examples along the way.

What is Kodi?

Kodi is a popular open-source media player and entertainment hub that allows you to stream content from the internet as well as local storage. It supports a variety of file formats, making it one of the most versatile media players available.

Why Use an External Kodi Database?

Using an external Kodi database can be beneficial for several reasons:

Data Consistency: Having one centralized database ensures that all your devices have access to the same media library and settings.
Backup and Recovery: In the event of data loss, having an external database serves as a reliable backup.
Ease of Migration: If you upgrade your hardware or move to a new installation, transferring the database simplifies the setup.

Steps to Use an External Kodi Database on Ubuntu

Step 1: Locate Your Kodi Database

Kodi typically stores its database files in the following directory:

~/.kodi/userdata/Database/

Within this directory, you will find files like MyVideos107.db, MyMusic60.db, and Textures13.db, which comprise the video library, music library, and textures, respectively.

Step 2: Copy the Existing Database

You need to copy your existing database files from your current setup to the desired location on your new or secondary Kodi installation.

cp ~/.kodi/userdata/Database/MyVideos107.db /path/to/your/new/location/

Step 3: Update Kodi Settings

Now that you have copied the database files, you will need to configure Kodi to point to the new database location. This is generally done in the advancedsettings.xml file, which can be found (or created) in the following directory:

~/.kodi/userdata/

Here’s an example of what the advancedsettings.xml file should look like:

<advancedsettings>
    <database>
        <video>path_to_your_database/MyVideos107.db</video>
        <music>path_to_your_database/MyMusic60.db</music>
    </database>
</advancedsettings>

Step 4: Restart Kodi

After updating the advancedsettings.xml, restart Kodi to ensure that it loads the new database files. You should now see your media library as it was in your previous setup.

Common Issues and Solutions

Issue: Kodi Fails to Start

If Kodi fails to start after these changes, double-check the paths you have specified in the advancedsettings.xml file for accuracy.

Solution: Use Correct Permissions

If you copied the database from another user or location, make sure that your current user has the proper permissions to access those files:

sudo chown yourusername:yourusername /path/to/your/new/location/MyVideos107.db

Questions from Stack Overflow

How do I share a Kodi database between two devices?
- You can simply copy the MyVideos107.db and MyMusic60.db files to both devices and configure the advancedsettings.xml file on each device to point to the same database path.
[Original author: stackoverflow.com users]
Can I run multiple instances of Kodi with different databases on the same machine?
- Yes, but you’ll need to configure each instance to use a different kodi userdata directory, which can be achieved by launching Kodi with the --profile option.
[Original author: stackoverflow.com users]

Additional Tips

Regular Backups: It is a good practice to regularly back up your database. You can automate this process using scripts and cron jobs on Ubuntu.
Use an External Drive: For large media libraries, consider using an external drive for your database files, which will facilitate faster access and easier backups.
Networking: If you plan on accessing a Kodi database over the network, consider using NFS or Samba for file sharing, ensuring you manage permissions correctly.

Conclusion

Using an external Kodi database on Ubuntu not only helps in maintaining a consistent media library across devices but also simplifies the management of your media files. By following the steps outlined in this guide and addressing common pitfalls, you can enjoy a seamless Kodi experience.

If you have any more questions or need assistance, feel free to explore the wealth of knowledge available on Stack Overflow or the Kodi community forums. Happy streaming!