I am trying to use a VPN so that I may download files but i want my friends to have full access to my plex media server. I’ve been using expressvpn for years and have liked them, this is the first time I’m trying this. In the past it was either I download or they watch one or the other. So I had expressvpn walk me through split tunneling. It works for awhile but because their servers constantly change IP addresses eventually my friends can’t access. They have a static IP but it’s not designed for streaming and won’t help they said. Anyone else already doing this? Perhaps a different company? Maybe I’m missing something? I’m basically a newb so any help would be appreciated. Ty
That shouldn’t be the problem, at least not for remote access. The entire point of split-tunneling is that the app being left out of the tunnel (Plex Media Server, in this case) bypasses the VPN entirely. So it doesn’t matter if the VPN servers’ exit IPs change.
It may be that your public IP changes, and that can’t be avoided unless your ISP can provide you with a static IP (usually for a fee).
The first step I would recommend is to access the remote access settings in Plex Media Server and note the public IP address shown there. Compare that with the WAN IP address shown in your router’s configuration. They should be the same if split-tunneling is set up properly (and you aren’t in a double-NAT for some other reason).
The split tunneling is not being done at the router but rather the VPN software. I’m loathe to mess with the router because I finally got my system fixed awhile back, I actually was told I needed or had a double bat set up, I forget. Every stream was transcoding, no I’m streaming correct. I’m not sure what I need to do here, do I need a static ip? Was hoping someone was familiar with these issues.
I understand, and that’s the way it’s supposed to be (for most configurations). That doesn’t change anything regarding my statements above.
Go ahead and check what I suggested: Verify that the IP address shown in your Plex remote access settings matches what is shown as the WAN IP on your router (this part doesn’t involve the VPN directly; it’s just a verification step to ensure Plex is “on” your public IP address).
This is just information gathering; I’m not suggesting that you change anything yet.
I may have to find the info not sure if I still have it to look up my router but ty
Yes it is the same, i confirmed.
