Quick Start
From nothing to streaming — set up a host and connect your first client.
This is the shortest path to a working stream. Each step links to the details.
1. Set up the host
On your Linux + NVIDIA machine, follow the guide for your system:
Each one covers the NVIDIA driver, the dependencies, and how to build and run the host. Check the Requirements first if you're not sure your machine is a fit.
2. Start the host
From a terminal inside your desktop session (so the host can reach your compositor):
punktfunk-host serve --nativeThe host starts listening and prints its identity fingerprint. It advertises itself on your local network, so clients can find it by name. Leave it running. (To start it automatically at boot, see Running as a Service.)
3. Connect and pair a client
On the device you want to stream to:
- Apple (Mac, iPhone, iPad, Apple TV): open the punktfunk app — your host appears under On this network. Tap it, and when prompted, pair.
- Anything with Moonlight: add the host (it should be discovered automatically), then pair.
To pair, the host needs to show a PIN. Arm pairing from the host's web console (or with
--allow-pairing on the command line) — the host displays a 4-digit PIN, you type it into the client,
and they trust each other from then on. Full details: Pairing & Trust.
4. Stream
Once paired, select the host and start streaming. The host creates a virtual display at your device's resolution and refresh, and the picture comes up. Mouse, keyboard, and controllers flow back to the host.
Next steps
- Tune resolution, refresh, and bitrate.
- Run the host as a background service so it's always available.
- Hit a snag? See Troubleshooting.