After a long tenure as a Windows user, a recent transition to an M3 MacBook Air has led to a creative repurposing of older technology. The once-idle Windows PCs have been transformed into a robust streaming server powered by Plex, allowing seamless access to a personal library of movies, music, and more across various devices.
What you need to get started
Setting up a Plex server is straightforward, provided your hardware meets the necessary specifications. A Windows PC equipped with at least an Intel Core i3 or an AMD Ryzen 5, along with a minimum of 4GB of RAM and Windows 10, is sufficient for basic streaming needs. For those with a Ryzen 7, like the author, the setup process is smooth and hassle-free. However, if multiple users plan to stream simultaneously or if transcoding is required, a more powerful CPU may be necessary to avoid interruptions.
It’s important to note that Plex is compatible only with x86 or x86-64/x64 architectures, meaning ARM-based systems on Windows are not supported.
Setting up the Plex streaming server
The journey begins by downloading the Plex Media Server from the official website. Once installed, the server operates in the background without a graphical interface, prompting users to sign in or create an account through a web browser. The Setup Wizard guides users through essential configurations, including naming the server and establishing media libraries.
Getting your libraries set up
To effectively organize your media, creating a structured file system is key. Starting with a test folder for each media type—movies, TV shows, music, and photos—allows users to visualize how their content will appear in Plex. This initial setup can be adjusted later as preferences evolve.
Once satisfied with the organization, users can easily create and name libraries. For instance, a neatly arranged folder of movies can be added to the Movies library, while a collection of unorganized photos can find its place in another library. Newly created libraries will appear at the bottom of the interface, with options to pin them for quick access.
- Open the Plex app or website.
- Click More on the left pane to view your streaming server.
- Hit the Add Library button (the + icon) next to your server’s name.
- Choose the library type (Movies, TV Shows, Music, Photos, or Other Videos).
- Name your library, select the language from the drop-down, and click Next.
- Click Browse for Media Folders to point Plex to where your media files are, or manually enter the path.
Plex enhances the experience by automatically fetching metadata for all TV shows and movies, providing descriptions, posters, and even audience scores. To keep the library updated, simply move new content into the designated folder and select Scan Library Files from the Libraries section.
Connecting your TV, tablet, or computer
With the server configured, accessing content across devices becomes effortless. Users can connect their Plex Media Server to smartphones, tablets, TVs, or computers by installing the appropriate Plex applications. Once installed, these devices should automatically detect the server, facilitating smooth media streaming.
For those wishing to share their library, Plex allows easy access for friends and family. By navigating to Settings and selecting Manage Library Access, users can grant library access to others by entering their Plex username or email.
Put old hardware to good use
Transforming an old PC into a Plex streaming server is not only practical but also a sustainable choice. With minimal hardware requirements, even refurbished mini PCs can serve as efficient servers. While Plex is a popular choice, alternatives like Jellyfin offer a streamlined experience without reliance on external services.
