12 Best Home Server Software | Which One is Perfect For You
If you’ve ever wondered how to manage everything on your devices, home server software is a great option for you. It’s like having your private cloud, where you can store and access files, stream movies, run websites, and even control smart devices all from one central place.
Software like Unraid, FreeNAS, and Ubuntu Server are great for helping you take control of your devices and manage everything from one place easily.
| openmediavault | Key Features | Price |
|---|---|---|
| TrueNAS | ZFS storage, data protection, easy setup, web interface | $0 (Free) |
| Plex | Media streaming, user library, device support, DVR | Free / $4.99/month |
| ClearOS | Network management, security, web filtering, app marketplace | Free / Paid plans |
| Emby | Media organization, live TV, parental controls, multi-user | Free / $4.99/month |
| Openfiler | NAS support, iSCSI target, web management, RAID support | Free |
| OpenMediaVault | Easy installation, Docker support, file sharing, plugin system | Free |
| Ubuntu | Open-source OS, software repository, community support, versatility | Free |
| Windows Home Server | File backup, remote access, media streaming, easy setup | $49.99 (one-time) |
| Amahi | App store, file sharing, easy setup, web interface | Free / Paid plans |
| XigmaNAS | ZFS support, user-friendly, media sharing, virtualization | Free |
| Jellyfin | Media streaming, open-source, multi-device support, customization | Free |
What is Home Server Software?
A home server is a computer system that provides services to other devices in your home network. It can store all your files, let you access them from anywhere, stream media to your TV, and even host a website.
Home server software is the operating system or application you install on your home server to manage and provide those services. It acts as the interface between you and the hardware, making everything run smoothly and giving you access to all the features
1. TrueNAS CORE
TrueNAS CORE (formerly FreeNAS) is one of the most reliable home server solutions, particularly known for its robust data storage features.
Benefits:
- ZFS File System: Offers high data reliability and integrity, perfect for secure storage.
- Plugins: Extend functionality with media servers like Plex or cloud storage like Nextcloud.
- Virtualization: Run multiple applications on virtual machines.
- Backup and Snapshots: Advanced backup solutions for data protection.
- Web-Based Management: Easy-to-use web interface.
Pricing:
- Free: TrueNAS CORE is an open-source solution, so there’s no cost for the software itself.
- Hardware: Requires hardware, which could range from $300 for a basic setup to $1,500+ for more configurations.
2. Plex Media Server
If streaming your media library is your main focus, Plex Media Server is one of the best options available.
Benefits:
- Media Organization: Automatically organizes your media with metadata, covers, and descriptions.
- Device Compatibility: Stream to any device, including smart TVs, phones, tablets, and gaming consoles.
- Remote Access: Access your media from anywhere in the world, not just your home network.
- User Profiles: Create personalized profiles for each family member.
- Add-Ons: Expand functionality with features like live TV and DVR.
Pricing:
- Free: The basic version of Plex is free.
- Plex Pass: For additional features (live TV, DVR, etc.), the Plex Pass costs:
- $4.99/month
- $39.99/year
- $119.99 for a lifetime subscription
- Hardware: Basic hardware costs around $300–$600, depending on your needs.
3. Ubuntu Server Edition
Ubuntu Server Edition is a highly customizable and flexible home server solution, widely used for personal and professional environments.
Benefits:
- Customization: Install and configure exactly what you need, from file storage to media streaming.
- Stable and Secure: Trusted for handling sensitive data, making it great for web hosting.
- Community Support: A huge support community ensures plenty of resources for troubleshooting.
- Virtualization: Supports Docker and other virtualization platforms for hosting multiple applications.
- Long-Term Support: LTS versions are maintained for years, ensuring security and stability.
Pricing:
- Free: Ubuntu Server is open-source and completely free to use.
- Hardware: A good server build can start at $250 and go up depending on performance needs.
4. ClearOS
ClearOS is designed to be a beginner and flexible home server solution.
Benefits:
- App Marketplace: Install apps for media streaming, file storage, and network management.
- Security: Built-in firewall and antivirus for extra security.
- Simple Web Interface: Easy to manage through a clean dashboard.
- Backup Solutions: Automatic backups to keep your data safe.
- File Sharing: Share files across multiple devices, including remote access.
Pricing:
- Free: There’s a free community edition.
- Business Edition: Costs between $36 to $300 per year depending on features and support.
- Hardware: Basic server hardware can start at $300.
5. Emby Server
Like Plex, Emby is focused on media streaming but offers more customization.
Benefits:
- Customizable Media: More control over how your media is organized.
- Live TV and DVR: Offers live TV and DVR options.
- Mobile Sync: Sync media files to mobile devices for offline viewing.
- Parental Controls: Robust parental controls allow you to manage access for each user.
- User Profiles: Like Plex, Emby supports multiple profiles.
Pricing:
- Free: Basic Emby is free.
- Emby Premier: For additional features, the Premier plan costs:
- $4.99/month
- $54/year
- $119 for a lifetime subscription
- Hardware: Basic setup costs around $250–$600, depending on your requirements.
6. Openfiler
Openfiler is an open-source solution focused on file storage and data management.
Benefits:
- High-Performance Storage: Efficient file storage and retrieval, with multiple sharing protocols.
- Access Control: Fine-tuned access control, perfect for families or small offices.
- Backup: Supports advanced backup configurations.
- Virtual Storage: Create virtual storage solutions.
- RAID Support: Supports RAID configurations for redundancy and data security.
Pricing:
- Free: Openfiler is open-source and free.
- Hardware: A basic storage setup could start around $300 and scale up depending on storage requirements.
7. OpenMediaVault
OpenMediaVault (OMV) is a popular open-source home server solution designed to be easy to use.
Benefits:
- Web-Based Interface: Manage everything from a user-friendly web dashboard.
- Plugins: Extend features with plugins for media streaming, backups, and cloud storage.
- Low Resource Requirements: Can run on minimal hardware, making it great for older machines.
- Automated Backups: Set up automatic backups to keep data secure.
- User Management: Create and manage user accounts with ease.
Pricing:
- Free: OpenMediaVault is free and open-source.
- Hardware: You can set up a basic system for as little as $150–$300, especially with older hardware.
8. Windows Home Server
Although discontinued, Windows Home Server is still popular for its simplicity and Windows integration.
Benefits:
- File Sharing: Easily share files across Windows devices.
- Automated Backups: Built-in backup features for Windows PCs.
- Media Streaming: Integrated media streaming via Windows Media Player.
- Remote Access: Access files from anywhere via a Windows account.
- Familiar Interface: A familiar Windows interface makes it easy for users.
Pricing:
- Discontinued: No official pricing since it’s no longer sold, but used licenses can be found for $50–$100.
- Hardware: Basic setup costs $250–$500, depending on your needs.
9. Amahi Home Server
Amahi is an easy-to-use home server solution, especially for beginners.
Benefits:
- App Store: Amahi offers one-click installations for apps like media streaming and file storage.
- VPN Access: Built-in VPN for secure remote access.
- File Sharing: Easy file sharing across multiple devices.
- Low Hardware Requirements: Can run on old or repurposed hardware.
- Media Streaming: Supports DLNA for easy streaming across smart devices.
Pricing:
- Free: Amahi has a free version.
- Paid Apps: Some apps cost between $1–$5.
- Hardware: Basic hardware can start at $150–$300.
10. XigmaNAS
XigmaNAS (formerly NAS4Free) is an open-source home server software focused on storage and file sharing.
Benefits:
- Wide Protocol Support: Supports a range of file-sharing protocols like CIFS, NFS, and FTP.
- Data Protection: Offers RAID configurations and ZFS for data protection.
- Low Resource Use: This can run on older hardware, making it budget-friendly.
- Web Interface: Easy-to-use web-based management.
- Backup Solutions: Provides robust backup features to ensure data safety.
Pricing:
- Free: XigmaNAS is completely open-source and free.
- Hardware: Costs for hardware can start around $200, depending on storage needs.
11. Jellyfin
Jellyfin is a completely free, open-source media server solution similar to Plex and Emby.
Benefits:
- 100% Free: No paid tiers, all features are free.
- Customizable: Offers a lot of customization for media organization and playback.
- Live TV and DVR: Supports live TV and DVR without any additional costs.
- User Management: Create multiple profiles for different family members.
- Remote Access: Stream your media from anywhere without limitations.
Pricing:
- Free: Jellyfin is completely free to use.
- Hardware: A basic media server setup can be built for $150–$500.
12. Nextcloud
Nextcloud is an open-source platform for building your cloud storage system.
Benefits:
- File Syncing: Sync files across devices, similar to Dropbox or Google Drive.
- Collaboration Tools: Includes tools for document editing, calendars, and chat.
- Data Encryption: Built-in encryption ensures your files are secure.
- Remote Access: Access your files from anywhere.
- Extensibility: Add apps for additional features like media streaming or extra cloud storage services.
Pricing:
- Free: Nextcloud is open-source and free.
- Hardware: A good cloud setup can start at $200–$500.
Pros and Cons Of Home Server Software
Pros
✔️ Full control over data.
✔️No monthly cloud fees.
✔️Secure, private storage.
✔️ Tailor services easily.
✔️Stream to any device.
Cons
❌ Hardware can be costly.
❌ Needs some tech skills.
❌ Requires regular updates.
❌ May raise electricity costs.
❌ Risky if misconfigured..
How To Buy a Subscription Of Home Server Software?
To buy a subscription for home server software, follow these steps:
- Choose Software: Pick the software you want, like Nextcloud, TrueNAS CORE, or Ubuntu Server.
- Visit the Website: Go to the official website of the software.
- Select a Plan: Look for pricing options and choose a plan that suits your needs.
- Create an Account: Sign up with your email and a password.
- Payment: Enter your payment details and confirm your purchase.
- Download: After buying, download the software and install it on your device.
Why Use Home Server Software?
It’s important to understand why you might want to set up a home server in the first place. Here are a few reasons:
- Centralized File Storage: Keep all your files in one place, accessible from any device.
- Media Streaming: Stream movies, music, and photos to any device, even outside your home network.
- Privacy: No need to rely on third-party cloud services you control all your data.
- Backup Solutions: Secure backups of important files that can be automated and protected.
- Custom Services: You can host websites, run game servers, or set up a smart home hub, all from one device.
Reviews Of Home Server Software
Positive Feedback:
- Customers often praise the software for its reliability, noting that it runs smoothly without frequent issues.
- Many users appreciate the variety of features, allowing them to customize their home server to fit their specific needs.
Negative Feedback:
- Some customers mention that certain features can be confusing, especially for beginners.
- A few users have reported difficulties during the initial setup, finding it more complex than expected.
Conclusion
Choosing the right home server software depends on your specific needs. If you’re looking to stream media, securely store files, or even host your website, there is a home server software that will fit your requirements.
From the advanced data management features of TrueNAS CORE to the user-friendly Amahi, there’s something for everyone.
