I started using CloudFlare as my VPN after it was suggested to me. I have it installed on my dedicated Plex machine and I’d like to have it always on. I’m new to running Plex behind a VPN, and so far it seems to work fine, but I’m getting odd behavior when logging on from a remote network. Plex will load, but occasionally I have to refresh the page a bit before the content shows up, and if I go to the remote settings, it comes up as “indirect” in the Plex Web section. I was able to play a video just fine and everything, but the web portal itself just seems to go in and out. I assume there’s some network shenanigans I can employ to make sure the remote connection is more solid, but I’m very uneducated when it comes to that kind of thing, so I’d need pretty specific instructions to set things up properly.
I’d appreciate any suggestions!
Just curious as to why you’re using a VPN with Plex? Are you behind CGNAT?
No idea what CGNAT is. I’ve simply heard through the grapevine that having a VPN active while using Plex remotely is good for security, but I’m no expert. If I’m off-base there then I can disable it.
This. Unless you’re behind cgnat there’s no reason to do this. You’re just creating headaches for yourself.
Yes having a VPN when remotely connecting to your server is good for security when on an insecure network like an airport or at a shady location. A VPN when hosted helps people connect to you securely. A VPN as a client helps hide your identity from anyone snooping in on your traffic that’s on the same network. Your situation does not make sense to use a VPN at all when it’s just for watching Plex. If you have other apps that require traffic to be hidden use socks5 or configure the proper settings in that app accordingly. I’m sure whatever issues you had when using plex remotely will be resolved.
This is great to know! Thanks very much for the input.