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.

  • Avid Amoeba@lemmy.caEnglish
    0·
    18 days ago

    I have three hypotheses.

    • There’s a setting for remote streaming quality. It may be set to 720p.
    • The port isn’t open on your router and Plex streams via a Plex relay server which limits the quality.
    • The CPU might not be fast enough to transcode beyond 720p and Plex might be transcoding for remote streaming.
    • triptrapper@lemmy.worldOPEnglish
      0·
      18 days ago

      Thanks for the concise reply!

      -Streaming quality is set to original on every device I use to access Plex.

      -I still get confused about open ports, but I’ll check again and make sure it’s not running through relay.

      -I believe the hardware should be fast enough to transcode at least a couple streams, but I’ll check again.