Ubuntu Install Plex Server – A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

Greetings, dear readers! In today’s world, where the streaming industry has grown by leaps and bounds, having a media server like Plex has become a necessity. Ubuntu is one of the most popular operating systems among developers, and installing Plex on it may seem like a daunting task. However, worry not, as this article will provide you with a step-by-step guide to install Plex on Ubuntu.

Before diving into the installation process, let’s understand what Plex is and how it works. Plex is a media server that allows you to organize, stream, and share your media files, including movies, TV shows, music, and photos, among other things. It also offers additional features such as live TV, DVR, and premium audio features, making it an all-in-one media server.

Here are a few reasons why you should install Plex on Ubuntu:

Advantages	Disadvantages
Easy to use and manage media files	Requires a high-speed internet connection
Supports multiple platforms and devices	Some features require a premium account
Provides additional features like live TV and DVR	Can be resource-intensive

Ubuntu Install Plex Server – A Detailed Explanation

Now that we have a basic understanding of what Plex is and why we should install it on Ubuntu let’s move on to the installation process.

Step 1: Ensure that your Ubuntu is Up-to-date

Before installing Plex on Ubuntu, ensure that your system is up-to-date by running the following commands in the terminal:

 sudo apt updatesudo apt upgrade 

This will update all the packages on your system to ensure that you have the latest security patches and bug fixes.

Step 2: Add Plex Repository

In this step, you need to add the Plex repository to your system by running the following command:

 echo deb https://downloads.plex.tv/repo/deb public main | sudo tee /etc/apt/sources.list.d/plexmediaserver.list 

This command will add the Plex repository to your system’s list of sources, allowing you to install Plex via the apt package manager.

Step 3: Import Plex GPG Key

The Plex repository requires a GPG key to verify the authenticity of the packages. You need to import the GPG key by running the following command:

 curl https://downloads.plex.tv/plex-keys/PlexSign.key | sudo apt-key add - 

This command will import the Plex GPG key, which will ensure that the packages you install are valid and not tampered with.

Step 4: Install Plex

With the Plex repository added and the GPG key imported, you can now install Plex by running the following command:

 sudo apt updatesudo apt install plexmediaserver 

This command will install the Plex media server on your Ubuntu system.

Step 5: Configure Plex

After installing Plex, you need to configure it to start using it. Follow the below steps to do so:

1. Open your web browser and go to http://localhost:32400/web
2. Click on the “Launch” button to start the Plex setup wizard
3. Create a Plex account or sign in if you already have one
4. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the setup process

After completing the setup process, you can add your media files to Plex by clicking on the “Add Library” button and selecting the appropriate media type.

Step 6: Enjoy your media on Plex

Congratulations! You have successfully installed Plex on Ubuntu and configured it to stream your media files. You can now access your media files from other devices by downloading the Plex app and signing in to your account.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Is Plex free to use?

A1: Plex offers both free and paid plans. The free plan offers most of the basic features, while the paid plan offers additional features like live TV, DVR, and premium audio.

Q2: Can I install Plex on other operating systems?

A2: Yes, Plex supports multiple operating systems like Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, and more.

Q3: Can I share my Plex media with others?

A3: Yes, you can share your Plex media with others by creating a shared library and granting access to other users.

Q4: Does Plex support subtitles?

A4: Yes, Plex supports subtitles in various formats like SRT, SSA, PGS, and more.

Q5: Can I stream live TV on Plex?

A5: Yes, Plex offers a Live TV and DVR feature that allows you to stream live TV and record it for later viewing.

Q6: Can I use Plex without an internet connection?

A6: Yes, you can use Plex without an internet connection by setting up a local network.

Q7: Does Plex require a powerful system to run?

A7: Plex can run on a low-spec system, but for optimal performance, a powerful system is recommended.

Q8: How can I access my Plex media on other devices?

A8: You can access your Plex media on other devices by downloading the Plex app and signing in to your account.

Q9: Can I create playlists on Plex?

A9: Yes, you can create playlists on Plex by selecting the media files and clicking on the “Add to Playlist” button.

Q10: Are there any alternative media servers to Plex?

A10: Yes, there are several alternative media servers like Emby, Jellyfin, and Kodi.

Q11: Can I add my own artwork to my media files on Plex?

A11: Yes, you can add your own artwork to your media files on Plex by selecting the media file, clicking on the “Edit” button, and adding the appropriate artwork.

Q12: Can I use Plex to stream music?

A12: Yes, you can use Plex to stream music and create playlists.

Q13: Can I download media files from Plex for offline viewing?

A13: Yes, you can download media files from Plex for offline viewing by selecting the media file and clicking on the “Download” button.

Conclusion

In conclusion, installing Plex on Ubuntu is a straightforward process that can be completed in a few easy steps. Plex offers a wide range of features and supports multiple platforms, making it an excellent choice for a media server. However, it is essential to keep in mind the advantages and disadvantages before installing Plex on your system. We hope this guide has been helpful to you in setting up your own Plex media server.

Don’t hesitate to take action and install Plex on your Ubuntu system today and enjoy a seamless streaming experience with your media files.

Disclaimer

The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only. The installation process of Plex on Ubuntu may vary from system to system, and the author or publisher of this article shall not be held liable for any damages or losses resulting from following these instructions. It is always recommended to do appropriate research before installing any software or making any changes to your system.

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