plex checking connection speed

Art Scpae

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08-10-2024

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Is Plex Running Slow? Check Your Connection Speed!

Plex is a fantastic way to stream your media library anywhere, but a slow connection can turn a cinematic experience into a frustrating slideshow. Before you blame your router or the streaming gods, checking your connection speed is a crucial first step in troubleshooting any Plex performance issues.

Why is Connection Speed So Important for Plex?

Plex relies on a reliable internet connection to deliver your movies, TV shows, and music smoothly. Here's why a strong connection matters:

• Streaming Quality: Plex streams content at different resolutions depending on your internet speed. A slower connection might result in buffering, pixelation, or even a drop in quality to compensate.
• Remote Access: Accessing your Plex library from outside your home network requires a stable internet connection for seamless streaming.
• Multiple Users: If multiple people are streaming from your Plex server at once, you'll need a fast enough connection to support all those simultaneous streams.

How to Check Your Plex Connection Speed

1. Directly on Plex: While Plex doesn't have a built-in speed test, you can check the connection quality through the server settings. This is especially useful if you suspect a problem with your server's connection.

   • Find the "Status" section in your Plex Web app.
   • Look for the "Connection Quality" indicator. This will display the current connection speed and overall quality of your Plex server's internet connection.

2. Online Speed Test: The easiest and most common way to check your internet speed is using a website like fast.com (powered by Netflix) or Speedtest.net.

   • Open a browser and visit the speed test website.
   • Run the test and note down the results.

Interpreting Your Results:

• Download Speed: This measures how fast your internet connection can download data. Aim for at least 10 Mbps for smooth streaming.
• Upload Speed: This measures how fast your internet connection can upload data. This is less important for typical Plex usage, but becomes more relevant if you're using Plex's live TV or DVR features.

What to Do if Your Connection is Slow:

• Run a speed test again: If your internet speed is slower than expected, it could be a temporary issue. Try running the speed test again later.
• Restart your router: Sometimes, a simple reboot can resolve connection problems.
• Check your bandwidth usage: Multiple devices streaming at once can drain your bandwidth. Consider prioritizing your Plex server's internet access if needed.
• Consider upgrading your internet plan: If your current internet plan doesn't meet your streaming needs, you might want to consider upgrading to a faster plan.
• Contact your internet service provider: If you've ruled out all other causes, your internet provider might be experiencing network issues.

Additional Tips:

• Optimize your Plex server: You can configure your Plex server to prioritize streaming quality and minimize buffering.
• Use a wired connection: Wired connections are generally faster and more reliable than wireless connections.
• Ensure your router is placed optimally: The location of your router can affect your connection speed. Consider moving it to a central location in your home.

Remember: A smooth streaming experience is essential for enjoying Plex. By checking your connection speed and addressing any issues, you can ensure that your Plex library is always ready to entertain.