How to share a Plex library

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

Sharing a Plex library allows you to grant access to your media collection to friends and family, enhancing the viewing experience. This can be done through the Plex web app or mobile app, and involves setting up user accounts and permissions.

Medium⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before sharing your Plex library, ensure you have the following:
  • •A Plex Media Server installed and running on a compatible device (Windows, macOS, Linux, or NAS).
  • •An active Plex account with a valid subscription if you wish to use premium features.
  • •The users you want to share with must also have Plex accounts.
  • •Internet connection for remote access and sharing.
  • •Backup your library metadata and settings to prevent data loss.

Method 1: Sharing via Plex Web App

This method is ideal for users who prefer a graphical interface to manage their Plex library sharing.
  • •Step 1: Open your web browser and go to the Plex web app at https://app.plex.tv/desktop.
  • •Step 2: Log in with your Plex account credentials.
  • •Step 3: Click on the 'Settings' icon (wrench icon) located in the top right corner.
  • •Step 4: In the left sidebar, select 'Users & Sharing'.
  • •Step 5: Click on 'Invite Friends' to add users.
  • •Step 6: Enter the email address of the user you want to share with and select the libraries you wish to share.
  • •Step 7: Click 'Send Invite'.
  • •Step 8: To verify, check the 'Users & Sharing' section for the new user listed under 'Friends'.
  • •Step 9: If they do not receive the invite, ask them to check their spam folder.

For Windows 11

Windows 11 users will find the interface similar, but with slight visual differences.
  • •Use the 'Start' menu to search for 'Plex' and launch the app directly.
  • •The settings icon is located in the same place, but may have a slightly updated design.

For Windows 10

Windows 10 users will follow the same steps as above, with no significant differences.
  • •Access the Plex web app through your preferred browser.
  • •Follow the same steps for sharing as outlined above.

Method 2: Sharing via Plex Mobile App

This method is convenient for users who prefer to manage their Plex library on mobile devices.
  • •Step 1: Open the Plex app on your mobile device (available on iOS and Android).
  • •Step 2: Log in with your Plex account.
  • •Step 3: Tap on the 'Menu' icon (three horizontal lines) in the top left corner.
  • •Step 4: Select 'Settings'.
  • •Step 5: Tap on 'Users & Sharing'.
  • •Step 6: Tap on 'Invite Friends' and enter the email address of the person you want to share with.
  • •Step 7: Select the libraries to share and tap 'Send Invite'.
  • •Step 8: Confirm the invite was sent by checking the 'Users & Sharing' section.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues while sharing your Plex library, consider the following solutions:
  • •Error: 'User not found' - Solution: Ensure the email address is correct and that the user has a Plex account.
  • •Issue: 'Invite not received' - Fix: Ask the user to check their spam folder or resend the invite.
  • •Problem: 'Library not visible' - Workaround: Check your sharing settings and ensure the library is selected for sharing.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

For power users, consider these tips to enhance your Plex sharing experience:
  • •Keyboard shortcut: Ctrl + Shift + I (Windows) / Command + Shift + I (Mac) - Opens the Plex web app developer tools for advanced troubleshooting.
  • •Command line: 'plexmediaserver --debug' - Starts the server with debug logging enabled for troubleshooting.
  • •Hidden feature: 'Library Access' - Customize access for each user by setting restrictions on specific libraries.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

For a seamless sharing experience, regularly review user permissions and network settings.