Once the media server is configured, you can stream and download that server content on other devices, as well as share you library with other people via the new, cross-platform Plex app. Although we don't condone the practice, content pirates may be drawn to Plex, as well. It's also for people who oppose popular video and music streaming services. Plex is best for people with large repositories of local media files who don't have a lot of space on the devices to which they'll stream content.

To get started, you set up a server on a device using the Plex Media Server application, and add local media libraries to it. Your media library follows you to every device with the Plex app. The benefit of this setup is that you only need to worry about maintaining your file collection on your server. Plex is a media management platform with two parts: the media server software (Plex Media Server) and the new playback application (Plex), which replaces the Plex Media Player. Still, Plex earns a top rating for its easy setup, reliable performance, and excellent organizational tools.

You should look elsewhere if you own a home theater PC (HTPC) setup, such as to the more customizable Kodi. Plex expanded its library of free streaming content, too, with preprogrammed channels, movies, and shows that you don't even need to store on your server.

The media management software helps you construct an always-accessible media server, and offers playback apps on many platforms. Plex offers an alternative if you like to maintain local collections of music, photos, and videos. Although music and video streaming services are great for consuming huge amounts of content, you never own any of it, regardless of how long you subscribe.

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