Why am I being asked to pay to access my own Plex server through my reverse proxy?

Plex Media Server
1

I recently set up a Plex Media Server and configured remote access through my own reverse proxy so that I can reach my own server and my own files from outside my network.

However, when trying to access it remotely, I am prompted to pay for a subscription, even though I am not asking Plex to provide any hosting, storage, or relay services — I am simply connecting directly to infrastructure that I already run myself.

This feels extremely confusing and frustrating. Why am I being asked to pay to access resources that are already on my own server, using my own reverse proxy, and without relying on Plex relay services?

Is this expected behavior, a configuration issue on my side, or a recent policy change? If there is a way to allow direct external access without being prompted for a paid subscription, I would appreciate clarification.

2

Plex Documentation
→ Remote Access and Granting Library Access

→ Plex Subscriptions

As of April 29, 2025, a Remote Watch Pass or Plex Pass is required to stream video remotely.

If you have a Remote Watch Pass: You can stream remotely from your own server. Anyone you share with must have their own Remote Watch Pass or Plex Pass.

If you have a Plex Pass: You and anyone you share with can stream video remotely from your server.

If you have neither: You cannot stream remotely from your server. Anyone you share with must have their own Remote Watch Pass or Plex Pass to stream remotely from your server.

The above applies only to video content. For music or photos, a Remote Watch Pass or Plex Pass is not required.