Plex is a popular media server software that allows users to stream their media library to multiple devices. However, some users have reported an issue where...
Mehtab Ansari
Last updated on April 17, 2023
Mehtab Ansari
Author
Mehtab Ansari is a contributing writer at Get Droid Tips. He loves writing on topics like smartphones, computers, and other technologies. Mehtab is always on the lookout for the latest and greatest technology trends and enjoys writing about the ways that you can use technology for your benefit.
Plex is a popular media server software that allows users to stream their media library to multiple devices. However, some users have reported an issue where Plex is not scanning their library or new files. If you are one of those users, don’t worry. We are here to help. In this article, we will help you fix this issue and also answer your frequently asked questions. So, without further ado, let’s get started.
There can be several reasons behind this issue. However, there are several fixes too. Here are some of the most effective solutions to help you get your Plex Media Server running smoothly again. Make sure to try all the fixes to solve the issue.
First, you should make sure your files are named and organized correctly. The scanners used by Plex are typically extremely capable and frequently effective, even with content that doesn’t stick to the naming guidelines. When the scanners do require assistance, it is done by labelling and expectedly categorizing the content. Make sure to rename your files and try again.
Next, check for any excluded content. Plex can exclude certain files or folders from a scan due to a .plexignore file, special words, or unsupported file formats. You’ll need to make sure your content doesn’t match any of these criteria in order to be found.
It should also be noted that the Plex Media Server does not accept “disk image” formats for multimedia (such as ISO, IMG, VIDEO TS, BDMV, or equivalent). You have to convert the content into a suitable format for it to be scanned.
Plex cannot extract archives by itself. Therefore, you will need to extract any content from an archive container (such as a ZIP, RAR, GZIP, TAR, or other similar files) to access the standard media file itself.
You can try changing your server if you’re still experiencing issues with Plex not scanning your library or new files. You can do this by using a VPN connection on your device.
A VPN, or Virtual Private Network, can help to mask your IP address and make it appear as if your device is located in a different location. This can sometimes help to resolve issues with Plex not scanning your library or new files, as the VPN connection can bypass any geographical restrictions or firewalls that may be causing the problem.
Restarting your device can also help resolve issues with Plex not scanning your library or new files. When you restart your device, all the currently running processes and services are shut down, and the device is rebooted. This can help to clear up any temporary glitches or bugs that may be causing the problem with Plex. Make sure to restart your device and try scanning the files again.
If you have accidentally disabled the Plex media server, you will not be able to scan the library or new files in Plex. Re-enabling it should fix the issue. Here’s how to re-enable it:
You can also try re-adding the files to your library. This can often resolve issues with Plex not recognizing your media files. Keep in mind; however, that re-adding files may take some time, depending on the size of your library, so be patient and let Plex finish the process.
Reinstalling Plex will remove the current version of the software and then install a new, fresh copy. This can help fix bugs, errors, or other issues that may be present in the current version of the software. Additionally, reinstalling can be used to upgrade to a new version of the software, which may include new features and improvements. Note that all your data will be wiped after the reinstallation.
First, you will need to uninstall Plex from your device. On Windows, go to the Control Panel, select Programs and Features, and then find Plex in the list of installed programs. Click on it and select Uninstall. On a Mac, open the Applications folder, find Plex and drag it to the trash.
Next, you will need to remove any remaining files from your device. On Windows, go to the C:\Users[username]\AppData\Local\Plex Media Server and delete the entire folder. On a Mac, go to the ~/Library/Application Support/Plex Media Server and delete the entire folder.
Now, you can download the latest version of Plex from the official website and install it on your device.
By following these steps, you should be able to reinstall Plex and fix any issues with it not scanning your library or new files. However, if the problem persists, it may be worth checking for any updates to the Plex Media Server.
One solution to this problem is to use an external drive to scan files. This can be done by connecting an external drive to your computer and then moving your media files to the drive. Follow these steps to do so:
It’s important to note that when using an external drive to scan files, it’s important to ensure that the drive is properly formatted. If the drive is not formatted correctly, Plex may not be able to scan the files. Additionally, it’s important to make sure that the drive is connected properly and that it’s not disconnected while Plex is scanning the files.
Resetting folder permissions can also fix issues with Plex not scanning your library or new files. The process is relatively simple and can be done by following these steps:
Note: These steps are for windows; if you are using a different operating system, the steps may vary.
There could be a variety of reasons for this, including issues with your server, network configuration, or the app itself.
You can try troubleshooting issues with your server and network configuration and fixing any issues with the files and media. You can also try reinstalling the app to see if that helps.
Reinstalling Plex may fix the issue, but it is not guaranteed. It is recommended to also try the other troubleshooting methods mentioned in this article.
If you have tried all the troubleshooting steps and are still experiencing issues, you may want to reach out to the Plex support team for further assistance.
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In conclusion, if you’re experiencing issues with Plex not scanning your library or new files, there are several fixes you can try. From ensuring your files are named and organized correctly to checking for excluded content, extracting archives, and even reinstalling the software. By trying all these fixes, you should be able to get your Plex Media Server running smoothly again and enjoy streaming your media library to multiple devices. If you still have questions, let us know in the comments below. We will try to help you out.
5 approved comments
So this article is useless. I have had this happen to me three times so far and every time it happens, after trying everything, I can only fix it be reinstalling my plex server. Why does this keep happening? It’s not something I did it just stops on its own.
Wow that was useless. I Plex based on advertised features and now find that not only do they NOT work, but they offer virtually no technical support. I am loading a music library. in 3 hours 31 album have loaded. I specified that ONLY local tags are to be use and NO other lookup should be made. Even with the worst code anyone (including me) has written this should take less than 1 minute. Using software I wrote I can load the metadata for 1,500 albums in about 4 minutes. That software took less time to write the the 3 hours needed for their software to load the metadata for 31 albums. This software is broken and unusable.
Wow same old tired BS.. useless. I Plex based on advertised features and now find that not only do they NOT work, but they offer virtually no technical support. I am loading a music library. in 3 hours 31 album have loaded. I specified that ONLY local tags are to be use and NO other lookup should be made. Even with the worst code anyone (including me) has written this should take less than 1 minute. Using software I wrote I can load the metadata for 1,500 albums in about 4 minutes. That software took less time to write the the 3 hours needed for their software to load the metadata for 31 albums. This software is broken and unusable.
Facing the same issues time and again. It has nothing to do with naming; editing the library and adding a new folder (there i add the same movie) leads to it being added but otherwise refreshing plex will not find on the parent folder. Annoying as hell. The issue is mentioned in so many subreddit threads, one would think someone in plex would sort it out by now. Where did the old reliable plex go?
Share your thoughts, questions, or extra tips with other readers.
Considering this started with my last update, I think it’s a problem not bring taken seriously by Plex.
Even this article should like you are dealing with amateurs who don’t know about excluded content or file names. I myself have 9TB of files that all worked on a system until I updated.
Nothing so far seems to work.