Plex has two parts. Plex Media Server runs on your computer or NAS and organises your own films, TV recordings, music and photos. The Plex apps on phones, TVs, consoles and computers play that library, and also offer Plex’s free, ad-supported films and live TV. Plex Media Server for 64-bit Windows is at version 1.43.4.10903.
Who it suits
People with a collection of their own media who want to watch it on many devices, including outside the home. If you only want Plex’s free ad-supported films and TV, you don’t need the server.
Get the official version
- Plex Media Server (Windows, Mac, Linux, FreeBSD, NAS): plex.tv/media-server-downloads. The same page lists the Plex app, Plexamp and other apps per platform.
- Android: Google Play. iPhone and iPad: the App Store.
- Windows app: from the downloads page or the Microsoft Store.
The download page says that by downloading you accept Plex’s Terms of Service and confirm you are at least 13.
Price: Plex Pass and Remote Watch Pass
The server and apps are free to install. Since April 29, 2025, streaming video from a Plex Media Server when you are not on the same network requires one of: an active Plex Pass on the server admin’s account (which covers every user of that server), a Plex Pass on your own account, or a Remote Watch Pass on your account. The rule already applies to the mobile apps, Plex for Windows/Mac/Linux, the web app, Roku, smart TVs, PlayStation and Xbox; music to Plexamp and photos are exempt.
- Remote Watch Pass: $2.99 per month or $29.99 per year (USD), with a 14-day trial.
- Plex Pass: monthly, yearly or one-time lifetime payment; see plex.tv/plex-pass for current prices.
Neither pass removes ads from Plex’s free streaming service. Google Play marks the app with “Contains ads” and “In-app purchases”.
Server requirements
| Item | Plex’s stated requirement |
|---|---|
| Windows | Windows 10 (version 1607) or newer, or Windows Server 2016 (1607) or newer; Intel or AMD only, no ARM |
| macOS | macOS 10.13 High Sierra or newer |
| Linux / FreeBSD | Ubuntu 16.04 or newer; FreeBSD 11.2 or newer |
| CPU | Intel Core i3 or equivalent recommended as a minimum |
| RAM | 4 GB is typically more than sufficient |
Questions
Do I need Plex Pass to watch at home?
No. The remote-playback rules apply only when you are not on the same local network as the server.
Does Plex Media Server run on ARM Windows laptops?
No. Plex says the Windows server supports only x86 and x64 processors from Intel or AMD.
Can I install Plex with winget?
Yes: winget install Plex.PlexMediaServer for the server, or winget install Plex.Plex for the Windows app.
