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Introduction
Welcome to our comprehensive guide on how to start a Plex server on Ubuntu! In this article, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of setting up and running a Plex media server on your Ubuntu system. Whether you’re a long-time Ubuntu user or a beginner, this guide is intended to be user-friendly and easy to follow.
Before we begin, let’s take a moment to understand what Plex is and what it can do for you. Plex is a media server that allows you to store, organize and share your media files such as videos, music, and photos. With Plex, you can access your media files from anywhere in the world using any device with an internet connection, including smartphones, tablets, and computers.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything from installation to configuration, and we’ll also discuss the benefits and drawbacks of using Plex on Ubuntu. So grab a cup of coffee, and let’s get started!
Starting Plex Server on Ubuntu
Starting Plex server on Ubuntu is a straightforward process that can be done in just a few steps. Here’s how:
Step 1: Install Plex Media Server
The first thing you need to do is install the Plex Media Server on your Ubuntu system. Plex is not available in the default Ubuntu repositories, so we’ll need to add the Plex repository before we can install it. To do this, follow these steps:
Command |
Explanation |
|---|---|
wget -q https://downloads.plex.tv/plex-keys/PlexSign.key -O – | sudo apt-key add – |
Downloads and adds the Plex signing key to the Ubuntu keychain. |
echo deb https://downloads.plex.tv/repo/deb public main | sudo tee /etc/apt/sources.list.d/plexmediaserver.list |
Adds the Plex repository to the Ubuntu sources list. |
sudo apt-get update |
Updates the Ubuntu package list with the newly added Plex repository. |
sudo apt-get install plexmediaserver |
Installs the Plex Media Server on your Ubuntu system. |
Step 2: Configure Plex Media Server
Once you’ve installed the Plex Media Server, you can access it by opening your web browser and navigating to http://localhost:32400/web/. Here, you can sign in with your Plex account or create a new one if you don’t have one already.
Step 3: Add Media to Your Library
The final step is to add media to your Plex library. To do this, click on the “Add Library” button and select the type of media you want to add (videos, music, photos, etc.). Then, specify the location of your media files, and Plex will automatically scan and add them to your library.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Using Plex on Ubuntu
Like any other software, Plex comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Here are some of the benefits of using Plex on Ubuntu:
Advantages
Easy to Use
Plex is designed to be user-friendly and easy to use. Its simple interface and intuitive navigation make it easy to find and play your favorite media files.
Flexible Streaming Options
Plex offers a wide range of streaming options, including support for multiple devices and platforms. This means you can access your media files from anywhere using any device with an internet connection.
Automatic Media Organization
Plex automatically organizes your media files by adding metadata, cover art, and other information. This makes it easy to find the media file you’re looking for, even if you have a large library of files.
Disadvantages
Resource-Intensive
Plex is a resource-intensive software that requires a powerful computer to run smoothly. If you’re running Plex on an older or less powerful computer, you may experience performance issues.
Privacy Concerns
Plex collects data about your media files, including information about what you’re watching and listening to. This raises privacy concerns for some users who don’t want their media consumption habits tracked.
Dependent on Internet Connection
Plex requires an internet connection to work properly. If you’re in an area with poor or no internet connection, you won’t be able to access your media files.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is Plex, and how does it work?
A: Plex is a media server that lets you store, organize, and share your media files, including videos, music, and photos. It works by streaming your media files over the internet to any device with an internet connection.
Q2: Is Plex free to use?
A: Plex offers both free and paid plans. The free plan comes with some limitations, while the paid plans offer more features and benefits.
Q3: Can I use Plex on Ubuntu?
A: Yes, Plex is compatible with Ubuntu and can be easily installed and configured on your system.
Q4: Do I need a Plex account to use Plex?
A: Yes, you need a Plex account to use Plex. You can sign up for a free account on the Plex website.
Q5: What devices are compatible with Plex?
A: Plex is compatible with a wide range of devices, including smartphones, tablets, computers, smart TVs, and gaming consoles.
Q6: Can I access my Plex server from outside my home network?
A: Yes, you can access your Plex server from outside your home network by setting up remote access and signing in to your Plex account.
Q7: How do I update my Plex Media Server?
A: To update your Plex Media Server on Ubuntu, you can run the following command in your terminal:
sudo apt-get update && sudo apt-get upgrade
Conclusion
Starting a Plex server on Ubuntu is a great way to store, organize, and share your media files. Whether you’re a movie buff or a music lover, Plex makes it easy to access your media files from anywhere in the world using any device with an internet connection. We hope this guide has been helpful in getting you started with Plex on Ubuntu.
If you have any questions or comments, feel free to leave them below. We’d love to hear from you!
Closing/Disclaimer
The information in this article is for educational purposes only. The author and publisher of this article are not responsible for any consequences that may arise from using the information in this article.
