Hey all, I'm very new to self-hosting and have no background in anything computer-related. I'll explain in as much detail as I can. I'm running Plex on a Synology DS220+. I'm using the Plex app, i.e. not using Docker (see note below).
The issue: I can watch Plex on my local network in 4K, but outside my local network it barely makes it to 720p. I thought it was an issue with my upload speed, but I got gigabit last week and it hasn't fixed the issue. I have remote access enabled in Plex through a manually-specified port. The issue persists with my own account and any friends who have access to my library.
I appreciate any advice, links or questions you can offer!
NOTE: I understand the benefits of Docker and I promise to transition in the future. I spent many hours learning and troubleshooting, and it was even functional at times, but eventually I needed something that just worked.
EDIT: You all have been so helpful and supportive. Thanks for meeting me where I'm at and sharing some potential issues.
EDIT2: I found the culprit by accident. I had UPnP enabled on my router. I turned it off and my local speeds increased significantly, and my Plex library is available remotely. I don't know how or why UPnP is related, but that's what the solution was for me. Thanks again for all your input and support.
My fiber company double natted me.
https://www.reddit.com/r/HomeNetworking/comments/8tl0wv/whats_double_nat_and_why_do_i_want_to_avoid_it/
It was really messing with my Plex remote connections and my VPN.
If you can't sort it out locally might want to give your isp a call and find out if they e done the same.
P.s sorry for the shit website link.
Ah, Plex suggested I might be double-natted. Since fiber doesn't need a modem (from my understanding) I have: fiber cable to box, box Ethernet to router, router ethernet to NAS. Maybe it would be better if I did box directly to NAS? Or would that put it on a separate network? I'll look into your double-nat solution. Thank you.
You need to call your isp and request a static ip. Most probably they’ll say its extra but usually around $5. If they say they don’t give static ips to individuals you can request an ipv4 dynamic address and use a ddns. ipv6 only networks also result similarly to double nat
Thanks for the tip. My ISP only offers static IPs for the business tier, but I'll ask about ipv4.