Using Jellyfin on Ubuntu, we can turn it to a media server. Let’s see the steps in this article. Bobcares, as a part of our Server Management Service offers solutions to every query that comes our way.

Overview

1. An Introduction to Jellyfin on Ubuntu
2. Why Use Jellyfin?
3. How to Install Jellyfin on Ubuntu 22.04?
4. Conclusion

An Introduction to Jellyfin on Ubuntu

Jellyfin is a free and open-source solution that lets us stream favorite movies, shows, and music across devices in the home network. Also, it is a powerful media server that turns the Ubuntu server into a streaming platform. Unlike other services like Plex or Emby, Jellyfin is completely free—no subscriptions, ads, or limits.

Why Use Jellyfin?

Free & Open Source: No hidden fees or restrictions.

Stream Live TV: Watch live TV and schedule recordings.

Automatic Metadata: Fetch movie details, posters, and ratings automatically.

Hardware Acceleration: Optimized performance for smooth streaming.

Expandable: Add plugins to enhance functionality.

How to Install Jellyfin on Ubuntu 22.04?

Follow these simple steps to install Jellyfin:

1. Install Required Tools

Install curl, gnupg, and other dependencies:

sudo apt install curl gnupg software-properties-common -y
sudo add-apt-repository universe -y

2. Add Jellyfin’s Key and Repository

Set up Jellyfin’s GPG key and repository:

sudo mkdir -p /etc/apt/keyrings
curl -fsSL https://repo.jellyfin.org/jellyfin_team.gpg.key | sudo gpg --dearmor -o /etc/apt/keyrings/jellyfin.gpg

export VERSION_OS="$( awk -F'=' '/^ID=/{ print $NF }' /etc/os-release )"
export VERSION_CODENAME="$( awk -F'=' '/^VERSION_CODENAME=/{ print $NF }' /etc/os-release )"
export DPKG_ARCHITECTURE="$( dpkg --print-architecture )"
cat < Types: deb
URIs: https://repo.jellyfin.org/${VERSION_OS}
Suites: ${VERSION_CODENAME}
Components: main
Architectures: ${DPKG_ARCHITECTURE}
Signed-By: /etc/apt/keyrings/jellyfin.gpg
EOF

3. Install Jellyfin

Update the system and install Jellyfin:

sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y
sudo apt install jellyfin -y

4. Start Jellyfin

Enable and start the Jellyfin service:

sudo systemctl start jellyfin.service
sudo systemctl enable jellyfin.service

5. Configure Firewall

Allow Jellyfin to communicate through port 8096:

sudo ufw allow 8096/tcp

Access Jellyfin

Open the browser and go to:

http://localhost:8096

Set up the user account, choose a language, and configure the media libraries. We’re ready to start streaming!

Add Media Libraries

To add the media:

Go to Dashboard > Libraries > Add Media Library.

Select the folder with the media and save.

Keep Jellyfin Updated

Run the following to update Jellyfin:

sudo apt update -y
sudo apt --only-upgrade install jellyfin

Uninstall Jellyfin

If we no longer need Jellyfin:

sudo apt remove jellyfin* -y

[Want to learn more? Reach out to us if you have any further questions.]

Conclusion

Jellyfin is the ultimate free solution to turn the Ubuntu server into a personal streaming hub. Set it up today and enjoy the media on our own way!