Stream Media Throughout Your Home

Multimedia Hub

© Lead Image © alphaspirit, 123RF.com

© Lead Image © alphaspirit, 123RF.com

Article from Issue 305/2026
Author(s):

Universal Media Server lets you stream your entire media library to any device in your home with minimal configuration.

If you've built a library of movies, music, and photos, Universal Media Server (UMS) can turn your computer into a private, on-demand streaming hub. It makes your local media instantly accessible across your home network, on other computers, smart TVs, game consoles, and phones – all without uploading anything to the cloud.

UMS is a free, open source media server that relies on Universal Plug and Play (UPnP) and Digital Living Network Alliance (DLNA) protocols. These protocols allow UMS to detect and connect with any compatible device on your local network. Once set up, you can browse and play your media collection directly from your TV or media app, just as if it were stored locally on the device.

Install UMS

UMS provides several installation options for Linux, including a tarball, an AppImage, and a Docker container. The latest version, UMS v15.2.0, brings improved transcoding, device compatibility, and an upgraded web interface.

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