Introduction

If you're an avid Plex user, you know how amazing it is to access your entire media library from anywhere in the world. But there's nothing more frustrating than when Plex remote access keeps turning off. It’s like getting ready to watch your favorite movie, only to realize you’ve misplaced the remote! This issue can be a real buzzkill, especially when you're miles away from home and eager to dive into your media collection.

But don’t worry, you’re not alone. Many Plex users face this issue, and there are plenty of solutions to get you back on track. This guide is here to walk you through everything you need to know to get your Plex remote access back on track. We’ll explore what causes these interruptions, how to troubleshoot them, and even suggest a reliable alternative in case you’re looking for a change. Ready to solve the mystery? Let’s dive in!

Understanding Plex Remote Access

Plex Remote Access is a feature that allows you to connect to your Plex Media Server from anywhere outside your local network. Whether you're at a friend's house, traveling, or simply in another room, remote access enables you to stream your media library seamlessly.

This feature is essential for those who rely on Plex to manage and stream their media across multiple devices. Without remote access, you're limited to streaming within your home network, defeating one of Plex's main selling points—its flexibility and convenience.

Common Causes for Plex Remote Access Turning Off

If your Plex remote access keeps turning off Windows, it could be due to several factors:

• Network Instability: A shaky internet connection can cause your remote access to falter. Plex relies heavily on a stable network to maintain a constant connection.
• Improper Router Settings: If your router isn't configured correctly, particularly regarding port forwarding, Plex may struggle to maintain remote access.
• Dynamic IP Address Changes: ISPs often assign dynamic IP addresses that change periodically, disrupting your Plex connection.
• Firewall and Antivirus Interference: Overly aggressive security software might block Plex’s communication, leading to disconnections.
• Outdated Software: Running an older version of Plex Media Server or outdated router firmware can lead to compatibility issues that affect remote access.

How to fix Plex Remote Access keeps turning off [4 ways]

Let’s look into how you can troubleshoot these problems effectively.

Way 1. Checking Your Network Settings

First things first, let's make sure your network is stable and configured correctly. Start by rebooting your modem and router. This simple step often clears out any temporary issues that could be affecting your connection.

Next, check if your devices (both your Plex server and the device you’re trying to connect from) are on the same network and have a strong connection. If you’re using Wi-Fi, ensure that the signal is strong enough, or switch to a wired connection if possible.

Way 2. Router Configuration and Port Forwarding

A common issue with Plex remote access is improper router configuration. For Plex to work remotely, it needs to communicate through a specific port on your router. If this isn’t set up correctly, you’ll keep experiencing issues.

Port forwarding might sound complicated, but it’s pretty straightforward once you get the hang of it. Here’s how you can do it:

Step 1. Register on Your Router: Launch a web browser and type the IP address of your router. Using your username and password, you must log in.

Step 2. Find the Port Forwarding Section: This is usually under the “Advanced” or “Security” settings.

Step 3. Create a New Port Forwarding Rule: Enter the IP address of your Plex Media Server, and specify the external and internal ports (usually 32400 for Plex).

Step 4. Save and Reboot: After saving your settings, reboot your router to apply the changes.

This should help stabilize your Plex remote access, but if the problem persists, keep reading.

Way 3. Updating Plex Media Server

Outdated software can cause a plethora of issues, and Plex is no exception. Make sure your Plex Media Server is up-to-date. Updates frequently come with patches for bugs and enhancements that fix issues with connectivity.

To update Plex, simply go to the Plex website, download the latest version, and install it over your current version. Alternatively, if your server is set to auto-update, it might handle this for you.

Way 4. Firewall and Antivirus Settings

Sometimes, your firewall or antivirus software might block Plex’s communication, leading to remote access issues. You’ll need to create an exception for Plex Media Server in your firewall and antivirus settings.

Step 1. Access Your Firewall Settings: Depending on your operating system, this could be in the Control Panel (Windows) or System Preferences (Mac).

Step 2. Add Plex as an Exception: Look for an option to add a program to your allowed list, and select Plex Media Server.

Step 3. Check Your Antivirus Software: Similarly, go into your antivirus settings and ensure Plex is not being blocked.

By doing this, you’re telling your security software to trust Plex, which should prevent it from interfering with your remote access.

AnyViewer: Best free Plex Remote Access alternative

Trying to use Plex easily is slightly difficult for many users. If you've tried all possible solutions and still find that Plex remote access keeps turning off, it might be time to consider a reliable alternative. This is where AnyViewercomes into play.

AnyVieweris a powerful and secure remote access tool that can be used to manage your remote device from anywhere. Unlike Plex’s built-in remote access, AnyVieweroffers a more stable connection, as it doesn’t rely on port forwarding. It’s easy to set up and works across multiple platforms, including Windows, Windows Server, Android, and iOS.

Moreover, AnyViewer allows you to control your entire device remotely, not just access your media files. This can be particularly useful if you need to perform maintenance tasks or troubleshoot issues without being physically present. By using AnyViewer, you can bypass many of the issues that cause Plex remote access to fail. It’s an excellent alternative for anyone who wants a reliable and secure way to access their media.

Step 1. Download and launch AnyViewer on both devices. To create a new account, click "Log in" and then choose "Sign up." Make sure you log in with the same account on both devices.

Step 2. Once you're logged in, your device will automatically connect to your account.

Step 3. Head to the “Devices” tab, select the device you want to access, and click "One-click control" to enable unattended remote access.

★Tips: Upgrading to a Professional or Enterprise plan enhances your AnyViewer experience and offers numerous advantages:

Easily connect to additional devices with one-click control.

Improve security with Privacy Mode for a secure and private connection.

Manage several devices at once without restrictions.

Take advantage of faster file transfer speeds for effective data sharing.

Organize large device portfolios with custom groups designed for corporate needs.

Experience better image quality for a clearer and more detailed remote view.

...

Conclusion

Dealing with the frustrating issue of Plex remote access keeps turning off? Don’t let it ruin your streaming experience. By understanding common causes and implementing effective troubleshooting steps, you can resolve connectivity issues and enjoy uninterrupted access to your media library. If problems persist, consider exploring alternatives like AnyViewer, which offers a reliable and user-friendly solution for remote access. Keep your Plex setup in top shape with regular updates and proper configuration to ensure smooth streaming no matter where you are. Happy viewing!