Top 12 programs for Windows and Linux that you don't have to pay for at all

When setting up a media server, choosing the right software to store and play your media files is important. Today we will be looking at twelve of the best free programs available on Windows and Linux.

Kodi - home theater software

Kodi is an excellent solution for organizing multimedia content with open source and cross-platform support.

Key features:

• Large range of supported formats;
• Extensibility through add-ons.
• Ability to record TV programs.
• Customizable interface.

How to install Kodi on Ubuntu:

1. Open terminal.
2. Type: sudo apt update.
3. Conduct the installation of Kodi with the following command: sudo apt install kodi.

Plex is a universal media server

With Plex, you can organize and stream media files to different devices by automatically scanning your library.

Key features:

• User-friendly UX design.
• Support for various formats.
• Access to content via the Internet.

Subsonic is a media server for music streaming

Subsonic is focused on music streaming, offering access via web interface or mobile apps.

Key features:

• Support for various audio formats.
• Playlist creation.
• Integration with mobile devices.

Madsonic - focus on music

Madsonic is a lightweight music media server with good cross-platform compatibility.

Emby is a versatile media server

Emby supports music, video and images, has a modern interface and is available for all major operating systems.

Key benefits:

• Multimedia support: works with different types of media files.
• Intuitive interface.
• Mobile apps for managing your media library.
• Cloud synchronization and automatic detection of DLNA devices.

Gerbera: UPnP server for elegant media management

Gerbera is a powerful yet surprisingly easy-to-use UPnP media server. Its open source and free nature make it an attractive option for users who value freedom and control. Gerbera's key features:

Red5 Media Server: a server for real-time streaming

Red5 is another open-source media server, but with a focus on real-time audio and video streaming. It is highly customizable and flexible, allowing streaming to be configured to meet specific requirements. In addition to streaming, Red5 is capable of being used for:

• Sharing remote sites.
• Data synchronization.
• Developing custom applications based on RTMP (Real-TimeMessagingProtocol).

Red5 is installed via GitHub by following the instructions on the official repository. Note that installation may require additional dependencies and system administration knowledge.

Jellyfin: The Complete Home Media Center Solution

Jellyfin is a complete media streaming system offering client applications for different platforms (Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, web interface) and rich functionality: support for different codecs, ability to create user profiles, parental controls and much more. Jellyfin is a more out-of-the-box, out-of-the-box solution than Gerbera or Red5, focused on user-friendliness. Jellyfin installation is also done through the project's official website offering options for various operating systems.

Universal Media Server

Universal Media Server (UMS) is derived from PS3 Media Server and offers users the ability to stream media to a variety of DLNA and UPnP-enabled devices. This makes UMS a universal solution for organizing a home media server.

Installation on Linux:

Libre ELEC

Libre ELEC is a specialized Linux-based operating system designed to work with Kodi, a popular media player. LibreELEC offers users a wide range of options for setting up a media server and organizing media.

Notable features of LibreELEC

1. Flexible media organization: you can customize your library by adding different sources and categories.
2. Ability to record live TV: with the add-ons you can record your favorite TV shows.
3. Easy to manage TV series: the system allows you to easily keep track of which episodes you have already watched.
4. Easy to learn interface: the LibreELEC interface is simple and easy to navigate.
5. Plenty of add-ons: you can extend the functionality of the system by installing additional modules.

Installation Guide:

OSMC

OSMC (Open Source Media Center) is another Kodi-based solution that stands out for its simplicity and functionality. OSMC is free and open source, allowing users to customize it to their needs.

OSMC Benefits:

1. Quality UX design: OSMC offers a simple and straightforward interface that is suitable even for novice users.
2. Support for multiple protocols: this makes it easy to integrate OSMC with various devices and services.

Installing OSMC on Linux:

Ampache

Ampache is a web application for managing and streaming audio files. It allows users to organize their music collections and share them with others over the internet.

Ampache's key features are:

1. Music library management: Ampache allows you to download, organize and play music from anywhere in the world.
2. Streaming support: you can listen to your music on different devices over the internet.
3. Sharing interface: users can share their playlists and music collections.

Installing Ampache on Linux:

Conclusion

Creating a home media server is a great way to organize and enjoy your multimedia content. Universal Media Server, LibreELEC, OSMC, and Ampache offer a variety of features and capabilities that can meet the needs of any user. Choosing the right solution depends on your preferences and technical skills, but each of these applications can enhance your media experience.