How to use Plex server without opening Port 32400

General Discussions
1

Hi,

I recently moved to a building with an internet service “included”, I have only Ethernet connections in my apartment, and I have installed my own wireless router (Apple Time Capsule). Since I don’t have a “modem/router” I can’t open Port 32400, and the IT department in this building told me that it’s not possible to open any remote ports.

So how can I use Plex Mediaserver running on my Mac mini and access the content when I’m traveling?

Can I open the port in my Time Capsule, or can I use Plex without opening port 32400?

2

Can I open the port in my Time Capsule, or can I use Plex without opening port 32400?

You will not be able to direct connect if the IT dept. is unwilling to open the NAT or firewall. If they won’t open the port, you could try to find a VPN provider that will provide port forwarding. Your server would have to be connected to this VPN 24/7. If not you will be forced to relay through the Plex connection which is not ideal and may not even work for you.

3

Thanks for the answer, I will try to find a VPN provider that will provide forwarding, but I was hoping for an easier solution. I was living in another apartment a few years ago, and I never had to open any ports.

4

@bjorn1969 said:
Thanks for the answer, I will try to find a VPN provider that will provide forwarding, but I was hoping for an easier solution. I was living in another apartment a few years ago, and I never had to open any ports.

Different provider and different networks. There are just too many variables that can involved here.

5

Ok, thanks for the info, I will keep on trying.

6

It is very unsafe for Plex to require ports to be opened publicly. Any cyber security expert would agree. It seems that security is a second thought to Plex unfortunately. The Plex team really needs to provide a better solution to this that doesn’t require ports to be left open for potential attackers to take advantage of. Is this ever going to be fixed?

7

I am not a Plex developer. Its a web server that does HLS or DASH streaming. If you are that concerned, put the Plex server in your DMZ.