Introduction
Welcome to this comprehensive guide on how to install Plex Media Server on Ubuntu. If you’re a movie or TV show enthusiast who loves watching content on your own terms, then you’ve come to the right place. Plex Media Server is an excellent tool that allows you to stream your media content to various devices in your home or remotely.
Moreover, it’s easy to use and can be set up within minutes. In this guide, we’ll take you through every step required to install Plex Media Server on Ubuntu. Whether you’re a newbie or a pro, this guide is designed to help you set up your own media server without any hassle. So, let’s get started!
What is Plex Media Server?
Plex Media Server is a free software tool that enables you to stream your media content to various devices. It’s like having your own personal Netflix or Hulu, but with your own content. With Plex, you can stream movies, TV shows, music, and pictures to any device that supports the Plex app. The app is available for a wide variety of platforms, including Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS, and more.
Plex Media Server can run on any computer that supports the Ubuntu operating system, making it a great choice for anyone who wants to set up their own media server at home. The software is easy to install, configure, and use, making it a popular choice among many people who want to stream their content on their terms.
System Requirements for Plex Media Server Installation
Requirement |
Minimum Specification |
|---|---|
Operating System |
Ubuntu 16.04 or later |
CPU |
Intel x86 or compatible processors, or ARMv7 or ARMv8 |
RAM |
At least 2GB (4GB recommended) |
Storage |
At least 1GB free space on system partition |
How to Install Plex Media Server on Ubuntu
Step 1: Add Plex Repository to Ubuntu
The first step in installing Plex Media Server on Ubuntu is to add the Plex repository to your system. This will allow your system to download and install the software. To add the repository, follow these steps:
1. Open a Terminal window on your Ubuntu system.
2. Run the following command to download the Plex repository key:
“`$ curl https://downloads.plex.tv/plex-keys/PlexSign.key | sudo apt-key add -“`
3. Next, 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“`
4. Finally, update your system’s package list by running the following command:
“`$ sudo apt update“`
Step 2: Install Plex Media Server
After adding the Plex repository, you can now install Plex Media Server on your Ubuntu system. To do this, follow these steps:
1. Open a Terminal window on your Ubuntu system.
2. Run the following command to install Plex Media Server:
“`$ sudo apt install plexmediaserver“`
3. During the installation, you’ll be prompted to create a Plex Media Server account. Follow the prompts to create an account.
4. Once the installation is complete, you can access Plex Media Server by opening a web browser and entering the following URL:
“`http://localhost:32400/web“`
Step 3: Configure Plex Media Server
After installing Plex Media Server, you’ll need to configure it to suit your needs. To do this, follow these steps:
1. Open a web browser on your Ubuntu system and enter the following URL:
“`http://localhost:32400/web“`
2. Sign in to your Plex account that you created during the installation process.
3. Follow the prompts to set up your media library and add your media content.
4. Once you have added your media content, you can start streaming it to any device that supports the Plex app.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Plex Media Server
Advantages of Plex Media Server
1. Free and easy to use.
2. Supports a wide range of platforms and devices, including Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS, and more.
3. Provides an intuitive and user-friendly interface for managing and streaming media content.
4. Can stream content locally or remotely, making it ideal for use at home or on the go.
5. Provides a wide range of customization options to suit the needs of different users.
6. Supports multiple users, so everyone in the family can have their own profile and watchlist.
Disadvantages of Plex Media Server
1. Requires a stable and fast internet connection for remote streaming.
2. Can be resource-intensive, depending on the number of devices and users connected to it.
3. May require additional hardware to set up, depending on your needs.
4. Some features, such as live TV streaming, require a subscription to Plex Pass.
Frequently Asked Questions about Installing Plex Media Server on Ubuntu
1. What is Plex Media Server?
Plex Media Server is a free software tool that enables you to stream your media content to various devices.
2. What are the system requirements for installing Plex Media Server on Ubuntu?
You need at least Ubuntu 16.04 or later, Intel x86 or compatible processors, or ARMv7 or ARMv8 CPU, 2GB of RAM, and at least 1GB free space on the system partition to install Plex Media Server on Ubuntu.
3. How do I add Plex repository to Ubuntu?
You can add the Plex repository to your Ubuntu 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“`
4. How do I install Plex Media Server on Ubuntu?
You can install Plex Media Server on Ubuntu by running the following command in the Terminal:
“`$ sudo apt install plexmediaserver“`
5. How do I access Plex Media Server on Ubuntu?
You can access Plex Media Server on Ubuntu by opening a web browser and entering the following URL:
“`http://localhost:32400/web“`
6. How do I set up my media library on Plex Media Server?
You can set up your media library on Plex Media Server by following the prompts after signing in to your account on the web interface.
7. Can I stream content remotely with Plex Media Server?
Yes, you can stream content remotely with Plex Media Server as long as you have a stable and fast internet connection.
8. Does Plex Media Server support multiple users?
Yes, Plex Media Server supports multiple users, so everyone in the family can have their own profile and watchlist.
9. Is Plex Media Server free?
Yes, Plex Media Server is free. However, some features, such as live TV streaming, require a subscription to Plex Pass.
10. Can Plex Media Server stream live TV?
Yes, Plex Media Server can stream live TV, but you’ll need a subscription to Plex Pass to use this feature.
11. How can I customize Plex Media Server?
You can customize Plex Media Server by following the prompts on the web interface after signing in to your account.
12. Does Plex Media Server support subtitles?
Yes, Plex Media Server supports subtitles.
13. How do I uninstall Plex Media Server on Ubuntu?
You can uninstall Plex Media Server on Ubuntu by running the following command in the Terminal:
“`$ sudo apt remove plexmediaserver“`
Conclusion
Setting up your own media server has never been easier, thanks to Plex Media Server. With this tool, you can stream your media content on any device and platform of your choice. We hope this guide has been helpful in setting up Plex Media Server on your Ubuntu system.
As you’ve seen, the installation process is straightforward and easy to follow, even for beginners. With a stable internet connection and a bit of patience, you’ll be up and running in no time. So, what are you waiting for? Install Plex Media Server on Ubuntu and start enjoying your media content on your own terms!
Closing Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only. The author and website do not assume any responsibility for any errors or omissions in the information provided. The reader is solely responsible for their use of the information presented in this article.