Many NAS boxes from the likes of QNAP and Synology come with a proprietary operating system (OS), whereas a do-it-yourself (DIY) server might instead use a Linux distribution (distro) installed. Often, network-attached storage devices feature non-user upgradeable processors and limited RAM. For instance, a NAS box usually is a pre-built solution with a CPU (central processing unit), RAM, and harddrive bays. It’s essentially a server, but more self-contained.

That way, files on a NAS are accessible on the local area network as well as outside of the network. What is a NAS and How Does it Work?Ī network-attached storage device is basically file storage that’s connected to the Internet. Getting started with Plex requires a library of films, shows, and music albums which you can acquire through DVD, Blu-ray, or CD rips, a Plex server, and a Plex client. As such, it’s one of the best apps for cord-cutting. However, Plex added a slew of cord-cutting features such as ad-supported free, legal streaming movies and shows, the ability to use an OTA antenna for live TV and DVR functionality, plus web shows and podcasts. Then, Plex organizes your library with metadata and box art, and you can access your films, shows, and albums on any number of devices from virtually anywhere. Whereas streaming services such as Netflix, Hulu, and Vudu host the content, with a media server you provide the movies, TV shows, and music files. You can think of Plex like a DIY Netflix or Spotify. Check out the best NAS for Plex options, from servers to NAS boxes! What is Plex? As such, you’ll not only want a great Plex client, but you’ll need a network-attached storage (NAS) device. Although Plex has rounded out its feature set with free, legal streaming content, podcasts, and live over-the-air television, its server functionality remains at the forefront. While it’s not the only server application available, Plex is one of the most user-friendly media server programs.

Plex is an incredibly popular media server software option.

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