This post details elaborate steps to set up and use Jellyfin on FireStick. The steps below apply to all Fire TV devices, including FireStick 4K and FireStick 4K Max, and Fire TV Lite and Cube.
What Is Jellyfin?
Jellyfin is a free media system software for organizing, managing, and sharing multimedia applications and files. This app is ideal for FireStick users who like to store all their apps and files in one place for hassle-free access. In addition to file and app storage, you can use Jellyfin to stream your favorite movies and TV shows and browse the internet using its URL search bar.
There are several things to like about this app. The main advantage is that it’s free to download and set up. Moreover, it organizes all your media files in one location so you can find them conveniently. Jellyfin features a straightforward interface that’s easy to navigate.
Another standout feature of this software is the streaming quality. Movies and TV shows maintain the same HD quality as their source without lagging or buffering. Jellyfin also simplifies finding your favorite shows by organizing them by season. You can also sort your media library by description, rating, actor, or IMDB filter system.
Even better, Jellyfin supports Chromecast streaming and is compatible with multiple platforms, including FireStick. However, to use this service, you’ll need to create a server on the official website.
For FireStick Users
ISPs, hackers, and other third-party entities worldwide may monitor your online activities. For security, privacy, and smooth streaming, it is recommended to use a reliable VPN for FireStick. Your IP address is visible to sites you visit.
I recommend ExpressVPN, a fast and secure VPN in the industry. It is very easy to install on any device, including an Amazon Fire TV Stick. Also, it comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee. If you don't like their service, you can always ask for a refund. ExpressVPN also has a special deal where you can get 4 months free and save 61% on the 2-year plan.
Read: How to Install and Use the Best VPN for FireStick
Jellyfin Overview
Here’s a brief review of Jellyfin’s best features:
- It’s a free and open-source media player
- Works as an all-in-one organizer for your media files
- You can stream movies and TV shows
- It sorts your entertainment files by seasons and episodes
- Easy to use and set up
- Supports Chromecast
- It has a battery optimization feature
How to Install Jellyfin on FireStick
Installing Jellyfin on FireStick takes a few simple steps. You can find and download the Jellyfin app directly from the Amazon App Store.
Follow the steps below:
1. Go to your FireStick home screen and click Find.
2. Click Search.
3. Type Jellyfin in the search bar and select Jellyfin from the suggested results.
4. Click on the Jellyfin tile.
5. Click Download or Get depending on the on-screen option.
6. Wait for the Jellyfin app download and installation to complete.
7. Click Open or hold down the remote’s menu button to open.
This is how you install Jellyfin on FireStick from the Amazon Store.
How to Stream on FireStick with a VPN
Your internet provider and many websites/apps can see your IP address and some details about your connection. Using a VPN encrypts your traffic and masks your IP address, which helps protect your online privacy.
I recommend ExpressVPN. It’s a reputable VPN with strong encryption and fast connections, and it’s straightforward to install on Fire TV/FireStick and other devices.
Next, I’ll show you how to set up and use ExpressVPN on your Fire TV/Stick.
Step 1: Subscribe to ExpressVPN HERE. It comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee. Meaning, you can use it for free for the first 30 days, and if you are not satisfied with the performance (which is highly unlikely), you can ask for a full refund.
Step 2: Power ON your Fire TV Stick and go to Find, followed by the Search option.
Step 3: Now type “Expressvpn” (without quotes) in the search bar and select ExpressVPN when it shows up in the search results.
Step 4: Click Download to install the ExpressVPN app on Fire TV / Stick.
Step 5: Open the app and enter the login credentials that you created when you purchased the ExpressVPN subscription. Click Sign in.
Step 6: Click the Power icon to connect to a VPN server. That’s all. Your connection is now secure with the fastest and best VPN for FireStick.
How to Use Jellyfin on FireStick
Before using Jellyfin, I recommend moving the app to your home screen so you can access it quickly whenever necessary. Here’s a guide on creating a shortcut on your home screen.
After launching Jellyfin, you’ll need to enter the server address you received after registering on the website to proceed to the main interface.
The cogwheel settings icon is on the right side of this window. You can click on it to review your authentication details, such as sign-in information and accounts. Under About, you can also see your device model and app version.
After entering your Jellyfin server address and clicking “Okay,” you’ll see all the app’s features. The layout is simple and clutter-free. The main home screen displays your media files. In the top-right corner of the home screen are the navigation buttons: A-Z, Favorite, Search, and Settings.
A-Z allows you to sort out your stored files alphabetically so you don’t have to scroll through them manually. Another easy way to find files is by using the search icon. Just click on it and enter the file name. Streaming any media file stored in the Jellyfin app is simple. Click on the file to start playing. Jellyfin’s streaming quality is excellent and has minimal lag or buffering.
If you like creative movie collections, you can organize your movie or TV show folders by their posters. You can also sort them by description, rating, or actor. Other unique features include automatic live TV recording and Chromecast streaming to any device within your network.
How to Cast Jellyfin on FireStick
Jellyfin is available on various platforms, including Android. So if you have this app on your phone, you can mirror it to your FireStick instead of downloading and using the native Jellyfin for FireStick app. Here’s how to do it:
1. Ensure your phone and Fire TV are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
2. Long-press the remote’s Home button for a few seconds or until you see the quick menu. Then, click the Mirroring tab on the menu.
3. Go to your phone’s App Store and enter Jellyfin in the search bar.
4. Click Install.
5. After installation is done, click Open.
6. Pull down your phone’s notification panel and click the cast icon.
7. Select your Fire TV device from the list.
8. Your Fire TV device will begin preparing to mirror from your phone.
9. Launch the Jellyfin app on your phone and connect it to your server.
10. Click on any media file to stream through your Fire TV.
When casting Jellyfin from your phone to Fire TV, you can view your phone’s entire media collection, including movies, shows, and music. Unfortunately, listening to music is only supported on Android devices.
Wrapping Up
FireStick users looking for an all-in-one media software for organizing and managing their FireStick files will love Jellyfin. This app is open-source, free, and available for direct download on the Amazon App Store. It has a simple layout and a few buttons for navigation. One of the best features of Jellyfin is the diverse organization function for movies and TV shows. You can group them by posters, episodes, seasons, ratings, or actors. Additionally, Jellyfin has a search icon that allows you to locate any media or file directly.
Remember that setting up and using Jellyfin on FireStick only takes a few minutes. If you already have Jellyfin installed on FireStick, share your opinion of the app in the comments below.
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