How to Setup DLNA Media Server on Windows? If you’re a movie enthusiast with a vast collection of films on your Windows PC, you probably dream of enjoying those movies on your big TV screen. Fortunately, Windows offers a straightforward solution to help you achieve this through your home network.
Windows includes a DLNA (Digital Living Network Alliance) media streaming feature that allows you to send photos, videos, and music files to other DLNA-compatible devices like your TV, smartphone, or another PC.
Highlights:
- Windows PCs have a built-in DLNA feature for easy media sharing with TVs and smartphones.
- Activate media streaming in Windows settings to set up your DLNA server.
- Organize media files in designated folders within File Explorer.
- Use UPnP-supported media players like VLC to access your media from other devices.
- To disable the DLNA server, adjust Windows Media Player Network Sharing Service settings.
How to Setup DLNA Media Server on Windows?
To set the DLNA media server on Windows, Activate DLNA media server on Windows through settings and organize media files in designated folders. Access your media using UPnP-supported players like VLC and disable the server by adjusting Windows Media Player Network Sharing Service settings.
Setting up Your DLNA Media Server
Here, we’ll guide you on how to turn your Windows PC into a DLNA media server and effortlessly stream your content over a local network.
Step 1: Activate Media Streaming
- Open the Windows settings by clicking on the Start button and selecting the gear-shaped Settings icon.
- In the search field within the Settings window, type “media streaming” and click on “Media streaming options” when it appears in the results.
- Turn on media streaming to activate your PC’s built-in DLNA media server.
Customizing Your DLNA Media Server
- You can modify your server settings, such as changing the name of your media library.
- Manage which devices can access your content by reviewing the list of devices in the settings and removing or blocking any unwanted devices.
- Ensure that your PC doesn’t go to sleep to keep the content available. Adjust your power options accordingly.
Step 2: Organize Your Media Files
- Your DLNA media files are shared from folders within your library in File Explorer. If you can’t see these folders, right-click an empty space in File Explorer and select “Show libraries.”
- There are typically three folders that other devices can access while your PC is turned on. Move your media files into these folders to make them accessible to your DLNA-compatible devices.
Accessing Your Media from Other Devices
Accessing media content from other devices is straightforward as long as your media player supports UPnP (Universal Plug and Play). You can use VLC Media Player for this purpose.
- Open VLC Media Player.
- Ensure your device is connected to the same network as your Windows PC via Wi-Fi or Ethernet.
- Navigate to the “View” tab, then click on “Playlist.”
- On the left, under “Local Network,” click on “Universal Plug and Play.”
- Your DLNA server should appear here. You can browse through the folders and play your media files.
Turning Off the DLNA Media Server
If you ever want to disable your DLNA media server, follow these steps:
- Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog.
- Type “services.msc” and press Enter.
- Scroll down to find “Windows Media Player Network Sharing Service.”
- Double-click on it.
- In the pop-up window, change its “Startup type” to “Manual” and stop the service.
- Click “Apply” and “OK” to save the changes.
Conclusion
Setting up a DLNA media server on your Windows PC allows you to easily share and enjoy your media content on various devices within your home network. Whether it’s movies, music, or photos, Windows makes it effortless to create your own media server and enjoy seamless streaming on your favorite devices.
Source – Techy Druid
