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First startup and initial configuration

This guide explains what to do after installing PlexSub for the first time. Before you begin, confirm that the container starts and that you can open the panel in a browser.

1. Open the panel​

Local installation:

http://localhost:5000/adminportal

With a domain:

https://plexsub.yourdomain.com/adminportal

2. Create the first Owner​

On a clean installation, PlexSub opens initial setup before normal panel access is enabled.

Create the first Owner user there with an email address and password. Do not put owner credentials in .env; it should contain only infrastructure secrets such as PostgreSQL, settings encryption, and session secrets.

3. Review the public URL​

APP_BASE_URL must match the real URL:

APP_BASE_URL=http://localhost:5000
APP_BASE_URL=https://plexsub.yourdomain.com

This URL is used for links, sessions, callbacks, and integrations.

4. Configure the appearance​

In Settings, review:

  • Language
  • Instance name
  • Logo
  • Favicon
  • Primary colour
  • Basic portal text

5. Configure the core services​

Start with the minimum:

  1. Plex.
  2. Seerr or Overseerr.
  3. Email or notifications, if you plan to use them.

Then add optional modules such as Radarr, Sonarr, qBittorrent, Maintainerr, Tracearr, or Ko-fi.

6. Review the Customer Portal​

Check:

  • The correct language.
  • Clear wording.
  • Sections are visible only when they apply.
  • Sign in and sign out.
  • Mobile view.

7. Create a test user​

Before inviting real users, create or use a test user and validate:

  • Portal access.
  • Subscription or access status.
  • Requests, if you use them.
  • Notices and support.

8. Prepare backups​

Before using real data, protect:

  • The PostgreSQL database.
  • The backups volume.
  • The uploads volume.
  • The .env file.

Do not lose APP_SETTINGS_ENCRYPTION_KEY.

Final checklist​

  • The admin panel is accessible.
  • The first Owner was created during initial setup.
  • APP_BASE_URL is correct.
  • Core services were reviewed.
  • The Customer Portal was tested.
  • Backups are defined.
  • Demo Mode is disabled on real installations.