

My first media server was a windows laptop that streamed into a PS3. Find whats comparable with your hardware and experiment. Plex has earned its reputation as the best but there are numerous different options for home media server software. Some versions of the app require a subscription but the cost is minimal ($39 a year for a "Plex Pass"). It has versions for Xbox, PlayStation, Windows, Linux, and iOS. It's easy and versatile which makes it ideal for setting up a DIY home media server. This is probably the best choice for a beginner. The key is finding software that is compatible with every device in your home.To accomplish this, there are a variety of options. It's easier to build your own server than ever. Always remember to take power consumption into account and don't get nervous. If you already have a tower PC that's always hooked into your home network then use that. However you choose to store your media, that device simply needs to be able to run some basic software. Consider how much storage you need and find something on budget. You can purchase large, high powered machine that hold terabytes of information, or make use of old computer hard-drives.

There are literally hundreds of options to chose from. The key piece of home media server hardware. The faster your connection is, the less likely you are to have any lagging.Ī standard WiFi connection is enough to handle streaming to a single device however if you want 4k or high definition, a new router may be advisable. The alternative is running miles of cable throughout the home. The bare essentials of any home media server hardware. Source: Wikicommons Home media server hardwareĬhances are if you're reading this article at home then you have most of the physical components needed to put together a basic setup. Include with this all with support for subscription services like Netflix and third-party streaming devices like Roku and the entire house can become an independent access point. With relatively basic software and hardware a quality system can be set up quickly. CanaKit Raspberry Pi 3 Complete Starter Kit - $69.99.Amazon Fire TV Streaming Media Player - $89.99.NVIDIA SHIELD TV Pro Home Media Server - $199.99.Home servers can easily stream to any television, computer, or WiFi enabled device Best Plex Client Devices: Mainly it's a local point where you can store and access your movies, TV series, music, and whatever other kind of audio and video anywhere at home. What is a Home Server?Ī home server can be a lot of different things. There is no better way to enjoy and access your media than a home server. The time has come to piece together a streaming media setup and htpcBeginner has a quick-start guide to get a do-it-yourself (DIY) home media server ready right now.
