Plex has turned itself into one of the most sought-after software and server choices for streaming lovers. If you want to effectively stream, manage, and share your media libraries, including your favourite TV show, films, and music, Plex is a wonderful option to consider.
Plex Media Server is easy to set up on your desktop, allowing you to organise all of your media files under one umbrella and then stream it through the Plex app. However, the cybersecurity risk remains an issue while using a personal server for managing your media through a Plex. To keep your data safe and secure, we recommend streaming Plex through VPNs.
Using Plex streaming requires you to set up an in-house server, and it’s natural if you are concerned about the security of Plex. This article will take you through key security features and precautions related to Plex streaming.
Understanding Plex; How Does It Work
Plex is your one-stop destination for all digital media requirements. It’s a single media library based on a shareware platform for managing your multimedia content.
The Plex server can also conduct all the monitoring and organising for you if you simply install it on a PC that already contains all the content you would like to stream. You can also stream your media even if you’re out and about through the Plex app installed on your preferred devices.
Plex not only allows you to watch stuff that isn’t part of your media library but also to store all of your own media in one location. Imagine it as a simplified version of a free movie service, a podcast platform, and music streaming software.
To provide its customers with free and ad-supported content, it has worked with a variety of entertainment agencies, like MGM, Crackle, Legendary, Endemol Shine Group, Warner Bros., and Lionsgate.
Almost every device, such as tablets, smartphones, smart TV, Mac, Windows, or Linux Laptops and Computers, and now even Playstation or Xbox consoles, can be used to stream content.
What is Plex Media Server?
The platform’s core is its Plex Media Server, which can be set up on any Computer (Mac, Windows, or Linux) or any supported NAS (Network-attached storage) device.
A significant part of all this work is performed by the server, which also arranges and searches your file system, finds and instals the artwork, reviews, and other information for your content, and recodes the file’s information to ensure that it is supported by your streaming device.
The best part is that if your main goal is to stream videos, then it is already available on the Plex platform, and you won’t have to install the Plex media server.
Complementary SSL certificate
The link between the user (like your device) and its server is encrypted by an SSL certificate. It offers a vital means of safeguarding your private data – in your case, it is your Plex account and the media collection – from hackers.
All Plex users have access to a free SSL licence for the Plex media server as of 2015. According to Plex’s website, this eliminates the need for further encryption provided by a VPN or by developing your encryption keys.
The green lock indicator – indicates that your server, its media library, and the device you are currently using all have a safe connection – is readily available on the Plex software interface.
Digital Media Sharing
You can share your media library with your loved ones using Plex. Other individuals can also explore and watch the content on the Plex server with your consent.
Of course, Plex has fundamental standards in place to maintain the security of this connection. For instance, for you to ask a friend to see your media, you must first sign up for the Plex app(which opens in a new tab). You may also control who will have access to the items in your collection as the server administrator.
Plex Home is likewise designed for sharing. However, it’s for housemates only. Any applications or devices that are essential must be logged in if you choose Plex Home. Additionally, your built-in DLNA server is instantly turned down to help secure your data.
Streaming Through Plex with a VPN
You can safeguard your online activities by using a VPN. If you are already using a VPN for streaming or are interested in using one in addition to Plex, it can provide the Plex server and your profile an additional layer of anonymity. Additionally, it could aid in avoiding potential issues with streaming, including bandwidth limiting (which causes buffering).
A VPN may, however, result in early connection problems with Plex’s security licence. Plex advises turning down your VPN until an authorised connection is established to get around this.
Whether Plex streaming is secure and safe?
Security does seem to be a primary focus for Plex. It offers comprehensive protection to protect your media collection, Plex membership, server information, and devices that connect to Plex for streaming against data breaches, privacy violations, and hacker attempts.
Additionally, it offers security precautions so that you may safely enjoy your media catalogue with loved ones.
How does Plex safeguard user data?
For secure connection between servers, services, and the user software, Plex provides a TLS licence. They secure all the personal data they gather; for instance, users’ login information is kept on their servers and secured by encryption tools. Braintree, which provides an online payment service for Plex, secures and protects credit card and payment information, which is not kept on Plex servers. For additional details, please consult the Plex Privacy Policy.
When you use plugins for Plex or any third-party services offered by Plex or some other software providers, your personal data is gathered and safeguarded by these technologies. The protection and privacy of such data gathered by the third-party tool is not the responsibility of Plex.
Plex gathers user data to better understand how users will engage its products. Numerous applications and services gather user information. Alternatives to Plex, like Emby, Kodi, and Universal Media Server, are also available. For extra information, users should Google their privacy laws. None of them gather information for industrial or commercial uses.