Installing Plex on Ubuntu Server in 2021: A Comprehensive Guide

👉 Introduction

Welcome, tech enthusiasts! Are you planning to install Plex on your Ubuntu Server? Plex is a powerful media server that allows you to stream your media content from one device to another. It’s an excellent choice for people who have a large media collection and multiple devices. Although installing Plex on Ubuntu Server may seem technical, it’s not rocket science. In this article, we will guide you through the entire process of installing Plex on Ubuntu Server and cover all the essential aspects. So, let’s dive in!

👉 What is Plex?

Plex is an all-in-one media server software that allows you to stream media content from your computer or NAS to any device, anywhere. It can stream your photos, music, and videos to your mobile devices, smart TVs, and gaming consoles. Plex also offers transcoding capabilities, so you can enjoy your content in the best possible quality on any device. Plex is free to use, but some of its advanced features require a premium subscription.

👉 Prerequisites

Before we start installing Plex on Ubuntu Server, you must ensure to meet the following requirements:

• Ubuntu Server 16.04 or later installed on the server you want to use for Plex
• A stable internet connection
• Root access to the server
• A modern web browser

👉 Installing Plex on Ubuntu Server

Step 1: Adding the Plex Repository

The first step in installing Plex on your Ubuntu Server is to add the Plex repository to your system. Here’s how:

1. Open the terminal on your Ubuntu Server.
2. Enter the following command:

	Command
1	wget -O – https://dev2day.de/pms/dev2day-pms.gpg.key | sudo apt-key add –
2	echo “deb https://dev2day.de/pms/ $(lsb_release -cs) main” | sudo tee /etc/apt/sources.list.d/pms.list
3	sudo apt-get update

Step 2: Installing Plex Media Server

After adding the Plex repository, it’s time to install Plex Media Server. Here’s how:

1. Enter the following command in the terminal:

	Command
1	sudo apt-get install -t stretch plexmediaserver

2. Once the installation is complete, start the Plex Media Server by entering the following command:

	Command
1	sudo systemctl start plexmediaserver

3. To ensure that Plex Media Server starts automatically at boot time, run the following command:

	Command
1	sudo systemctl enable plexmediaserver

Step 3: Configuring Plex Media Server

Now that you have installed Plex Media Server, it’s time to configure it. Here’s how:

1. Open a web browser on your local machine and type the server IP address and port number (http://server-ip-address:32400/web) in the address bar.
2. Follow the instructions on the screen to set up your Plex Media Server.
3. Create a Plex account if you don’t have one already.
4. Add your media content to Plex by clicking the “Add Library” button and selecting the media type.

Step 4: Accessing Plex Media Server

Once you have configured your Plex Media Server, you can access it from any device. Here’s how:

1. Open a web browser on your device and enter the server IP address and port number (http://server-ip-address:32400/web) in the address bar.
2. Log in to your Plex account.
3. Start streaming your media content!

👉 Advantages and Disadvantages of Using Plex on Ubuntu Server

Advantages

1. Plex is a free and open-source media server software that’s easy to use.
2. It can stream your media content to any device, anywhere.
3. Plex offers transcoding capabilities, so you can enjoy your media content in the best possible quality.
4. Plex has a robust plugin library that allows you to extend its functionality.
5. Plex is compatible with a wide range of devices, including mobile devices, smart TVs, and gaming consoles.

Disadvantages

1. Plex Media Server requires a dedicated device to run on, which can be an additional expense.
2. If you have a large media collection, Plex Media Server may consume a lot of storage space on your server.
3. Some of Plex’s advanced features, such as live TV and DVR, require a premium subscription.
4. Plex’s user interface can be overwhelming for some users.
5. Plex requires a stable internet connection for streaming your media content outside your local network.

👉 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is Plex?

A1. Plex is an all-in-one media server software that allows you to stream media content from your computer or NAS to any device, anywhere.

Q2. Is Plex free?

A2. Plex is free to use, but some of its advanced features require a premium subscription.

Q3. Can I install Plex on Ubuntu Server?

A3. Yes, you can install Plex on Ubuntu Server by following the steps mentioned in this article.

Q4. Can I stream media content outside my local network using Plex?

A4. Yes, you can stream media content outside your local network using Plex, but it requires a stable internet connection.

Q5. Can I use Plex on my mobile device?

A5. Yes, you can use Plex on your mobile device by installing the Plex app for Android or iOS.

Q6. What media formats does Plex support?

A6. Plex supports a wide range of media formats, including MP3, MP4, AAC, AVI, MOV, and more.

Q7. Can I add subtitles to my media content on Plex?

A7. Yes, you can add subtitles to your media content on Plex by downloading the subtitle file and adding it to the media file folder.

Q8. Can I share my media content with my friends and family using Plex?

A8. Yes, you can share your media content with your friends and family using Plex by creating a Plex Home and inviting them to join.

Q9. Can I use Plex without a server?

A9. No, you cannot use Plex without a server. You need to install Plex Media Server on a dedicated device.

Q10. Does Plex support live TV and DVR?

A10. Yes, Plex supports live TV and DVR, but it requires a premium subscription.

Q11. Can I control Plex using voice commands?

A11. Yes, you can control Plex using voice commands by integrating it with Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, or Siri Shortcuts.

Q12. Does Plex support 4K content?

A12. Yes, Plex supports 4K content, but it requires a powerful server and a fast internet connection.

Q13. Can I backup my Plex Media Server?

A13. Yes, you can backup your Plex Media Server by creating a backup of the server data folder.

👉 Conclusion

Congratulations! You have successfully installed Plex on your Ubuntu Server. Plex is a powerful media server software that can stream your media content from your server to any device, anywhere. In this article, we covered all the essential aspects of installing Plex on Ubuntu Server and highlighted its advantages and disadvantages. We hope this guide helped you set up your Plex Media Server and stream your media content hassle-free. Happy streaming!

👉 Disclaimer

This article is for educational purposes only. We do not endorse or condone any illegal or unethical behavior. Installing Plex on Ubuntu Server may violate copyright laws or terms of service agreements. Please consult your local laws and regulations before installing Plex on Ubuntu Server.

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