Media Server for Netgear ReadyNAS ULTRA 2 FW 4.2.15

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davethebb wrote:

If I update the firmware would this include the media server that I require. Could you also explain the benefits of going to OS6 as well. Dave.

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Free ReadyNAS apps (and "add-ons" for OS 4.2) can be found at apps.readynas.com.  There are also paid apps/add-ons at https://rnxtras.com/ (prices are low).

-OS 6 supports both ReadyDLNA and Plex.  There's also a twonky app available, but I haven't tried using it myself.  

-OS 4.2 only has ReadyDLNA at apps.readynas.com.  You can find twonky here if you search, but the version is outdated.

Overall, there are a lot of bug fixes and security updates since 4.2.15.  If you want to stay with OS4 you should update the firmware, even if it doesn't solve your media server problem.

OS4 is end-of-life, so there aren't any future firmware updates expected.  Getting add-ons (including media servers) to work is getting more difficult over time as the underlying linux libraries on the NAS are outdated.  

OS6  is current, and is getting security updates and new features - and even though you won't get support, so far Netgear has made sure OS6 runs on legacy ultras and pros.  Almost all OS 4.2 features were carried over, and many new ones were added.  Migrating to OS 6 does require a factory reset, so all data would be wiped.  If you go with it, I suggest upgrading to 4.2.30 first - I don't recall seeing others migrate to OS 6 directly with firmware as old as yours.