How to Install Plex Media Server on WD My Cloud

If you're looking for an efficient way to stream your media files across different devices, installing Plex Media Server on your WD My Cloud is a great idea. In this article, we'll guide you through the process of setting up Plex on your WD My Cloud.

Before we dive into the installation process, let's talk about transcoding - a crucial concept in understanding how Plex works. Transcoding refers to when Plex has to convert a video to play on a new streaming device. For instance, if you're remotely playing a 4K video on a 720p smartphone, Plex will have to transcode the video to ensure smooth playback.

In terms of CPU performance, transcoding can be a challenge for your Plex server. According to Plex's support page, a single transcoded stream requires a minimum PassMark score of 12,000 for 4K SDR, 2,000 for 1080p, and 1,500 for 720p. This means that if you're planning to remotely play high-definition videos on low-resolution devices, your Plex server will need sufficient CPU horsepower to handle the transcoding process.

Now that we've covered the basics of transcoding, let's move on to installing Plex Media Server on your WD My Cloud. Here are the steps:

1. Connect to your WD My Cloud using a web browser.

2. Log in to your account and navigate to the 'Settings' section.

3. Click on 'Media Server' and then select 'Plex'.

4. Follow the prompts to download and install Plex Media Server.

5. Once installed, configure your Plex server settings, including setting up users, media libraries, and transcoding options.

By following these steps, you'll be able to set up a fully functional Plex Media Server on your WD My Cloud, allowing you to stream your media files across different devices without any hassle.

Remember, the biggest challenge with transcoding is the CPU horsepower it requires from your Plex server. Therefore, if you plan to remotely play high-definition videos on low-resolution devices, make sure your Plex server has sufficient CPU performance to handle the transcoding process.

In conclusion, installing Plex Media Server on your WD My Cloud is a straightforward process that can enhance your media streaming experience. By understanding how transcoding works and configuring your Plex server settings accordingly, you'll be able to enjoy seamless video playback across different devices.

Install plex media server on wd my cloud