I’d like to suggest a feature that allows Plex to automatically choose between IPv4 and IPv6 connections based on which offers the best direct connection and streaming quality with the goal of avoiding Plex Relay whenever possible.
Right now, if both IPv4 and IPv6 are available, Plex seems to default to IPv4 without evaluating which path offers a more direct or higher quality route for a remote connection. This can result in unnecessary use of Plex Relay, even when a direct IPv6 connection is fully available and would perform better.
For example, I’ve tested this on my Pixel 7:
- When I access my Plex server via a web browser, it connects over IPv6 and skips the relay .
- But when I use the Plex Android app, it defaults to IPv4 and ends up using the relay, despite the IPv6 path being faster and more efficient.
Given how common CGNAT is becoming, especially for mobile and some residential ISPs, it makes a lot of sense to prioritise IPv6 when it’s available and provides a direct route. Ideally, Plex should:
- Detect when both IPv4 and IPv6 are available
- Evaluate which protocol offers a better connection (e.g. lower latency, direct route)
- Automatically choose the best one, or give users the option to prefer IPv6 when possible
This small improvement could make a big difference in stream quality and reliability for users in modern networking environments.
