How to Change Plex Library Location

Introduction

If you’re running out of space on your current drive, upgrading your storage, or simply reorganizing your media files, changing the Plex library location can help you manage your content more efficiently. By moving your Plex library to a new location, you can ensure that your media is stored where it makes the most sense for your setup and needs. So, if you’re ready to optimize your Plex setup and take control of your media storage, let’s dive right into it.

All images associated with these steps can be seen in the embedded YouTube video. Also, please note that you’re not able to leave a comment directly on this article. If you have a question or feedback, please leave it on the YouTube video.

Steps to Change Plex Library Location

1. If you haven’t already moved the media in the Plex library you want to change the location for, go ahead and move it into its new location. In this example I’ll move my workout videos to a new location.
2. Open a web browser, navigate to www.Plex.TV, and then sign into your Plex account. You’ll land on your Plex home screen.
3. Hover your cursor over the name of the Plex library you want to move in the menu on the left side of the screen, and then click the ellipses associated with that library. A menu opens.
4. Click “Manage Library” to open a submenu, and then click “Edit” in that submenu. An edit menu opens for that library. As you can see here, my current videos are located in a folder called Workout, and I moved all of my videos into a folder called Workout 2.
5. Click “Add Folders” in the menu on the left side of this window. You’ll see the folders currently associated with this Plex library on the right side of the window.
6. Click “Browse for Media Folder.” An old folder window opens.
7. Navigate to the new location of the content for this specific Plex library. Click to select that folder, and then click “Add.” You’ll now see that folder added to your Plex library, and the content in that folder will be scanned and added to that Plex library. Additionally, if you want to remove the old folder, all you need to do is click the “X” next to it. And finally, if you have multiple Plex libraries you want to move, you’ll need to repeat this process for all of them.

4 Reasons to Change Plex Library Location

1. Freeing Up Space on Your Primary Drive

Running out of space on your primary drive? Changing your Plex library location can free up valuable storage space. Moving your media library to an external drive or secondary internal drive keeps your main drive from getting cluttered. This helps your system run more smoothly and efficiently. It’s particularly useful if you have a large collection of movies, TV shows, and music. By relocating your Plex library, you optimize storage and maintain your computer’s performance. It’s a straightforward way to manage your media without sacrificing system speed.

2. Enhancing Performance

Notice your Plex server lagging or slowing down? Changing the library location can enhance performance. Storing your media on a faster drive, like an SSD, can improve access times and streaming quality. This reduces buffering and makes for a smoother viewing experience. It’s especially beneficial if you stream high-definition content or multiple users access the server simultaneously. By optimizing your library location, you ensure a more responsive and enjoyable Plex experience. Give your server the boost it needs with a strategic library move.

3. Simplifying Backup and Management

Want easier backup and management of your media? Changing your Plex library location can simplify this process. Moving your library to a dedicated external drive makes it easier to perform regular backups. You can quickly disconnect the drive and store it safely, protecting your media from data loss. This setup also streamlines file organization, keeping your media separate from other data. It’s a practical approach to managing a large media collection. Enjoy peace of mind knowing your media is backed up and well-organized.

4. Expanding Storage Capacity

Running out of room for your growing media collection? Changing your Plex library location allows for storage expansion. You can move your library to a larger external drive or a network-attached storage (NAS) device. This gives you ample space to add new content without worrying about storage limits. It’s an ideal solution for avid collectors and binge-watchers. Expand your library effortlessly and keep enjoying your favorite media. Ensure you have enough room for all your movies, shows, and music.