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Plex Download Synology

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Why Plex, Why Synology and Why Docker?

I find PLex an easy to use and maintain solution for managing and viewing my media files. I am also a big fan of Synology mainly because of the simplicity and ease of use. When it comes to Docker, lets say that I like abstracting and Docker makes my life easier when it comes to abstracting at the app layer that packages code and dependencies together and keeps them separete from the operating System.

Docker support is a separate install on Synology DSM

Plex - Native Install. Note: These steps might not be as thorough as they are from memory, but installing Plex was straight forward and the available resources are excellent. Download the spk file from plex.tv. (the version in the Synology Package Center is not kept up to date) Open Package Center in Synology DSM. Add the Synology Certificate. Well I show the package on synology to be 1.18.5.2309. Current public version of pms is 1.19.1.2701. I am currently running 1.19.2.2702, manual install from plex, beta pass holders. Plex and our partners use standard Web technologies, such as browser cookies, which may be necessary to make our site work and enable core functionality, such as security, network management, and accessibility.

Plex may, but is not obligated to, update the Plex Solution with updates, upgrades, enhancements, improvements, additions, new or incremental features or functionality of and generally made available through the Plex Solution (as determined by Plex in its sole discretion), or modifications that are provided as part of product support and any. If you have Plex Pass you should sign in as sometimes Plex Pass members get access to new versions with features faster than the public release. Make sure to grab the 64bit download for Synology. That will give you an SPK (Synology Package) file, which we'll need to go to the package center on the Synology NAS to install.

Navigate to the Package Center and install Docker. The package is provided and maintained by Synology, however make sure that your device is supported

Find and download linuxserver/plex in the Docker registry

From the main menu, access docker, navigate to the registry tab, search for 'plex' and click Download.

This step is equivalent to cli 'docker pull linuxserver/plex:latest'.

Wait a couple of seconds for the download to complete and then navigate to the Image tab. Find the plex image, select it and click Launch. You can check the documentation prior your setup.

Configure and Create Docker container from image

In the next steps, you will configure ports, volumes etc.

Step 1 - Naming

Give a name to your container and then click 'Advanced settings'.

Step 2 - Volumes Sharing persistent data with Docker containers

I always keep configuration outside containers. By doing that makes container upgrades, backups and configuration easier. I have created a shared folder on my Synology and mount that as volume to the container.

Step 2.1 - Mount Plex configuration folder path

Click on 'Add Folder' button and select the folder and select the shared folder you have previously created. On the mount path enter '/config'.

Step 2.2 - Mounting media folders

Now click again the 'Add Folder' button and add your media folder. Since Plex can also delete and update your media files, I've chosen to allow read/writes on the media folders.

Step 3 - Mapping ports

Map the ports as you want, especially if you have other containers running on the same port.

Plex Download Synology App

Step 4 - Specifying additonal environment settings

In the Environment tab, I've chosen to set TimeZone, Version, PUID and PGID.

Plex Download Synology

The Version setting will allow auto updates to the latest Plex version. According to the official documentation the following version settings are supported

  • docker: Let Docker handle the Plex Version, we keep our Dockerhub Endpoint up to date with the latest public builds. This is the same as leaving this setting out of your create command.
  • latest: will update plex to the latest version available that you are entitled to.
  • public: will update plexpass users to the latest public version, useful for plexpass users that don't want to be on the bleeding edge but still want the latest public updates.
  • : will select a specific version (eg 0.9.12.4.1192-9a47d21) of plex to install, note you cannot use this to access plexpass versions if you do not have plexpass.

The PUID and PGID environment variables are used in order for the applications running inside the containers to run under the correct user scope. To find yours connect to your synology using ssh and use id user as below.

Access Plex

If everything is done correctly and the container has started succesfully you should be able to access it through http://YOUR_SYNOLOGY_IP:324O0 unless you have specify other ports for the webui in Step 3.

Synology NAS models like the DS220+ and DS1019+ already come packing Synology's packages (or apps) that can handle streaming to devices and whatnot. Still, to make things easier and more visually appealing, you can opt to use Plex. This service allows you to configure various content libraries that are automatically imported, checked over, and sorted with a bunch of information downloaded from elsewhere (album art, metadata, etc.). This guide will run you through installing and configuring Plex on a Synology NAS, which would make working from home easier to live with.

Products used in this guide

  • NAS: Synology DS220+ ($300 at Amazon)
  • Plex: Plex Media Server (Free at Plex)

How to install Plex Media Server

You have the option to install Plex Media Server on Synology NAS using two methods.

Manual (recommended)

This route is a little more complicated and requires you to download and install new Plex Media Server releases, but it's my preferred method.

  1. Download the Plex Server package. (Choose 'Synology' under 'NAS'.)
  2. Connect to your Synology NAS.
  3. Open up the Package Center.

    © Provided by Windows Central Synology Settings
  4. Click on 'Manual Install.'
  5. Click 'Browse' and locate the Plex Server download.
  6. Download ispirit for iphone. Click 'Next.'

    © Provided by Windows Central Synology Settings
  7. Click 'Yes' on the pop-up.
  8. Click 'Apply.'

Automatic

If you'd rather install Plex through Synology's DSM and have the OS allow you to automatically update the package without having to fetch updates yourself, follow these steps instead.

  1. Connect to your Synology NAS.
  2. Go into Package Center.
  3. Click Settings in the top-right corner.

    © Provided by Windows Central Synology Settings
  4. Change trust level to 'Synology Inc. and trusted publishers'.
  5. Click Certificate tab.
  6. Open a new browser tab/window and download the certificate key from Plex.

    © Provided by Windows Central Synology Settings
  7. Click Import on the Certificate window.
  8. Browse to the downloaded key.
  9. Click OK.
  10. Back in Package Center, install Plex Media Server

Configuring your new server

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All you need to do now is click on the main menu in the top-left on the DSM interface and choose Plex Server. This will launch a new window with the Plex Server for you to hook up your Plex account, configure the network, search for media, and more. The wizard is straightforward, with only a few options. You will need to create a Plex account to take advantage of synchronization features and the like.

Ultimate Plex beginner's guide

© Provided by Windows Central Plex

Plex is one of those services that has been around for some time. Many of us might have passed it over for some reason, be it a lack of understanding of what it does, thinking it couldn't possibly be useful to you, or something else entirely. The truth is, Plex could be just what you're looking for to help you manage your media collection.

When running Plex on your Synology NAS, you will want to select a folder for where Plex can keep track of media files, be it photos, music, or video. The NAS itself comes with some default folders for such media, which can be selected. But you can create new folders in your 'home' folder that can then be accessed through Windows Explorer and other file managers for a more effortless transfer.

Now you can enjoy access to all your content on your smart TV, Xbox One, tablet, smartphone, Windows 10 PC, laptop, and all other devices running the Plex app with adequate access.

Our top equipment picks

To install and configure your very own Plex Media Server on a Synology NAS, you'll need the following equipment.

Plex

Plex Download Synology Pro

Beginner NAS

Synology DS220+

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Everything you need for a Plex server

The DS220+ is considered the perfect entry point for anyone new to the beautiful world of NAS. Powered by an Intel processor and with two drive bays, you have ample performance available for setting up a home media server with Plex. It's on our list of best NAS for home

Not only can you install and run your own Plex Media Server on the DS218+, but this NAS is also capable of being used for file storage, managing connected CCTV, and much more. Synology bundles a bunch of software and tools for you to use, and the available smartphone apps make setting up the NAS an absolute breeze.

Additional Equipment

While a NAS is mandatory, the Plex Pass and hard drives are optional but highly recommended additions.

Seagate Ironwolf

© Provided by Windows Central Seagate Ironwolf

It's best to use drives designed explicitly for NAS, and the Ironwolf series from Seagate are excellent storage solutions. These drives include AgileArray, which helps improve performance and reliability over traditional desktop drives.

Plex Pass

© Provided by Windows Central

You can use Plex for free. But to take full advantage of streaming capabilities with transcoding for advanced playback on connected devices and keeping your libraries looking perfect, you'll want to consider the optional Plex Pass.





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