VLC desktop 3.0 documentation · Primary-source explanation; examples are illustrative. Instructions are based on publisher guidance; a UK IPTV account was not tested on this platform.
Identify which launch route is involved
VideoLAN documents Windows controls for allowing only one VLC instance and for using one instance when started from the file manager. These are separate choices. If double clicking a second local file replaces the first playback, record how each was launched before changing unrelated codec settings. A file manager launch can follow a different configured route from opening media inside an already running player window.
Prepare two controlled local windows
For an original comparison, choose two short permitted files with distinct names. In the documented Windows Interface preferences, inspect both one instance choices, save the intended configuration and open the files using the launch route being examined. Confirm the filename and playhead in each window. Mute or pause one while comparing sound so that simultaneous output does not create a misleading echo or apparent distortion. Restore the original preference if the comparison no longer needs several windows.
Keep the platform and purpose in scope
The same documentation describes a command line option for Linux and a different workaround for macOS, so a Windows checkbox path should not be presented as a universal menu. Multiple local VLC windows also do not demonstrate an online service connection allowance or create extra device entitlements. Their practical purpose here is inspecting separate local media without replacing the first item. Record the player version and operating system when reporting a launch behaviour that differs from the documentation.