As conscientious computer users, we’re sure that you already make regular backups of all your data. However, there may be cases where you want to make a specific backup of just your Plex Media Server content (viewstates, metadata, settings, Channels, etc.). Doing so is easy, but the method and locations will vary depending on your operating system.
Back Up Main Plex Media Server Data
Tip!: In many cases, you may find it beneficial to “zip” or “tar” (or similar) the contents of the data directory. The larger your library, the more useful this may be for you as it could otherwise take a very long time to process thousands of individual small metadata files.
Tip!: For Windows and Linux systems, you can exclude the Cache directory if you wish. That can save space and time in the transfer.
For your operating system, make a backup of the main Plex Media Server data directory. The location will vary by platform.
Where is the Plex Media Server data directory located?
The main Plex Media Server data directory location will vary based on your operating system. Below are the default locations.
On Windows, the content is located inside of the user directory.
%LOCALAPPDATA%\Plex Media Server
Back Up Additional Settings
In addition to the main files, there may also be some additional special settings that should also be backed up.
Windows
Certain Plex Media Server settings are stored in the registry on Windows. In the registry, they’re located under:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Plex, Inc.\Plex Media Server
Restoring the Backup
If you need to restore your backed up data, it’s as simple as putting the main data back in the original location (as noted above). Then, restore the “additional settings” mentioned above, which would be restoring the registry data on Windows or the .plist file for OS X.
After you install the backed up data, you can re-install the Plex Media Server application.