How to Transform That Worn-Out Computer Into A Beneficial Home Media Server

A new computer!! Wow, that feeling is really awesome. However, if that old one is sitting at home or office, occupying much of your space, you definitely want toconvert it into a useful thing. Yes, the good news is you can build it into a home media server which is efficient to store your movies, backups, music and several other things.

The term ‘server’ is known to all, however, it is widely used in the context of big companies or websites which have ample of data to store. In reality, a server can also prove to be beneficial in your home. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps on how to convert your old PC into a home media server.

Now, to build media-streaming server for your home, here are the step-by-step instructions on how to do so.

Download & Install: To set up a home media server, download Plex Media Server Installer. To do this, click the link under Plex Media Server that states ‘Computer’. A pop up screen would appear. Ensure that the Windows tab is selected and click download ‘English’. As soon as the download is completed, start the installer. Next hit Install that appears on the first menu. If you click ‘Options’, it will ask you where do you want to install.C:\Program Files (x86)\Plex\Plex Media Server is the default location. Click ‘launch’ as soon as it is finished.

Add Libraries: When you click ‘launch’, a web browser would appear to the media management page. Go to http://127.0.0.1:32400)#sthash.TefDOH3a.dpuf and click ‘Agree’ on the Plex terms of service. Next, name your Plex server.Let’s name it ‘Home Media Server’ and hit ‘Next’. Thereafter, you are required to add libraries where your media would exist in. Click ‘Add library’ and select the kind of media you want in your library. Click ‘Next’, choose ‘Add Folder’ and select the folder where your movies are stored. Follow the same method for your other media types. Once all the libraries are added, click ‘Next’ to continue. You can also install channels that come from online resources on the next page. Then click ‘Next’ and ‘Done’.

Connect Your Device: Link your Plex Media Server to your system by installing the Plex app or Plex home theatre. As soon as it is installed, it can automatically detect, connect and stream media from the Plex Media Server. In case, you sign up for MyPlex account by https://plex.tv/users/sign_in and sign into it on your Plex playback devices and Plex Media Server while ensuring that the uPnp is facilitated on the router, the Plex playback devices would be qualified to find your Plex media server and stream various media in your absence.

By following the aforesaid steps, you can sit back and relax and watch your favorite movie on that old computer covering space at home.

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