If you want to handle 4K transcoding, it's better to build your own NAS or put aside thousands to fund a high-end pre-built NAS server enclosure. For storage and other features, you'll need to make sure the NAS has everything you require, and this will differ on a case-by-case basis.ĤK transcoding will not be possible with anything less than a multi-core Intel Celeron processor, which itself can struggle to keep up with larger files, especially when more than one Plex account is streaming media simultaneously. Generally speaking, you'll want to go with an Intel-powered NAS for optimal performance, but a high-end ARM processor can do well if you don't have the spare funds to part with for a more expensive solution. This spreadsheet will show you just how capable each enclosure is for NAS media transcoding. More affordable NAS models with less powerful processors will fall behind more expensive NAS servers with beefier internals for 4K streaming and multiple connections being made simultaneously. Not all NAS enclosures and processors will run Plex Media Server the same. Does it support 720p, 1080p, or 4K transcoding? You'll be able to easily check using the following resource. There's a fantastic NAS guide for Plex, which shows just how well each supported NAS system will perform. So how does one guarantee high performance for transcoding with Plex? Take a good look at the CPU used by companies in the NAS devices you're considering. What you need to transcode 4K media on Plex The server running Plex would need to transcode the file (which requires considerable computing power) and stream it across the network. Should a TV, tablet, or phone require some assistance from your server for playback, and it's not quite up to the task of handling the intensive request, things may not go smoothly. What is transcoding? It's the process of converting media from one file type to another on the fly. One thing worth noting before you part with hard-earned cash is, the less you fork out for a NAS, the more likely the system will not be able to effectively transcode and stream 4K content to other devices. Plex recommends several NAS devices (opens in new tab), including the following brands: On the other hand, what if you simply wish to purchase one of the best NAS for Plex, plug everything in, and get going? There are some solutions available from various companies, but not all are suitable for Plex, which can be fairly resource-intensive. It's possible to build your own, which is the desired method for those with the know-how. Plex requires a solid server to get the most out of the service, though a capable enclosure will suffice. Using a NAS enclosure to run this service is a great way to save money if you already own a vast collection of purchased media. Plex Media Server allows you to configure a single location to host and stream all your music, movies, shows, and more. Depending on the size of your drive and file structure, it may take a long, long, time.Plex is a popular choice for those looking to set up their own media server at home. If you want to check that something is working, pop open spotlight with 'Command' + 'spacebar'. I am not sure if this will login/mount correctly if you change wifi SSIDs, but likely not.
#Build nas for mac mac#
Go to your local mac from which you want to add the NAS to spotlight, pop open the terminal, and turn on the spotlight index on the drive with mdutil, where the name in / -i on N.b., that it may not say, but just remember to mount the one you enabled AFP for. On my QNAP, this is Control panel -> service discovery -> bonjour -> check AFP.On my QNAP, this is Control Panel -> win/mac/nfs/webdav -> apple networking-> check the boxes.If you don't, when you run these steps, you'll get an error. I'll memorialize the answer for myself, as I was unsatisfied with my google-fu on this.Įnable AFP and DHX2 authentication support on your NAS.