Convert old computer into plex server and usenet download

However, there is one nagging question that everyone has when purchasing a new computer: what do you do with the old one? Most people have at least one old computer gathering dust in a cupboard or the bedroom closet. As well, many people are fearful about throwing out a hard drive with its accumulated passwords and sensitive banking information that can be retrieved by crooks. The hard drive also provides another clue about why so many people avoid recycling their computers: old computers are often filled with priceless photos as well as priceless music and video collections.

There is one relatively quick and easy way to quickly access and view all of these old files without ever having to do the hard work of getting them off your computer.

By turning your old computer into a media server you can access your files anytime and virtually anywhere you have an internet connection. Until recently it was challenging to turn an old computer into a media server. Join , subscribers and get a daily digest of news, geek trivia, and our feature articles.

By submitting your email, you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Do you have an old desktop PC sitting in a closet somewhere? Put it to use by installing FreeNAS. FreeNAS is a free, open-source operating system that will convert old PCs into network-attached storage devices. Download FreeNAS from here. Burn it to a disc and boot the disc on your computer. The page also has a USB image you can use, if you prefer.

Boot the FreeNAS installer on the computer you want to install it on and go through the wizard. If you want to install FreeNAS on a USB flash drive or compact flash card — this is recommended — insert the removable device into your computer. Any attached USB drives will appear in this list.

The installer will write the FreeNAS operating system files to the drive you choose. You can now unplug your monitor from your FreeNAS box, if you prefer.

It should no longer be necessary. You can now use the web interface to set things up. Click the Storage icon on the toolbar to open the storage pane. Whatever protocol you use, your shared folder will be accessible just like any other shared folder. You could use the integrated user tools to set up different permission schemes for access to different folders or make them available to everyone.

In many cases, you can remove the DRM restrictions through a converter — for instance, TunesKit works well for media purchased through iTunes. However, the law regarding DRM removal is a little fuzzy. All of your devices For a few dollars, you can download an app for Android, iOS, Amazon, and Roku devices, as well as a smattering of smart TVs, that lets you view any of the content on the server.

Happy streaming By using Plex on an old computer, you not only harvest a piece of technology that might otherwise head to a landfill, but you also place your digital copies of movies and TV shows right alongside other streaming entertainment options such as Hulu, Netflix, and Amazon Prime Instant Video. How to back up your Android smartphone.

How to dual boot Windows 10 and Windows With Tesla bleeding money, Elon Musk initiates hardcore spending review. This can be done on either your server or router. Exactly how you set this will depend on your router but can be as simple as setting a Reserved address under the DHCP settings. Take note of the IP address you set your server to have. While still on your router, you should forward network port to the IP address of your server.

After this, your media should be available outside of your network. If you have any issues with this, Plex has an in-depth guide for Remote access issues and excellent support articles and guides.

FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. Check out 9to5Mac on YouTube for more Apple news:. A collection of tutorials, tips, and tricks from the 9to5Mac team helping you fix and get the most out of your favorite gear. July Why use Plex? How to organize your media for Plex Plex makes organizing movies and TV shows easy. Start by making a folder each for movies, TV shows, and music.