The .m3u8 file created by VLC indicates a saved playlist link from a live stream, rather than a self-contained video file. While VLC provides easy access to recording streams, utilizing the "Convert" function is necessary to generate a permanent video file, as opposed to a playlist manifest that relies on the active network source. To ensure a playable output in the future, use the "Convert/Save" option instead of the quick record button to generate an .mp4, as detailed in this YouTube video .