Plex has had string of security issues over the past summer (2026). Some security hole has allowed some jackass to insert a bitcoin miner on to your unsuspecting NAS. CPU running like crazy all the time? It’s not your Plex users, it’s this jackass using your CPU and electricity to make money.
But if you’ve kept up with the security patches and upgrades, you shouldn’t have this issue.
Asustor updates installed NAS apps – eventually. But usually not immediately when the security patches are release. Maybe they test them first? Maybe they don’t have enough staff to react to every new release? Who knows. But if you want to update your Plex Server right now follow these steps.
Here is how I successfully updated Plex Media Server my Asustor NAS.
- Read the alert on your computer – In the Plex App, click on ACTIVITY and then click on the update file to download or go to the Plex downloads page to get the file.
- In ADM, go to your NAS apps and stop the server (move the slider to the left).
- Go to updates and select MANUAL and put the file in from your download folder.
- Start the Plex Media Server service again and refresh your web interface to verify the new version number. If it doesn’t change you might have to reboot the NAS.
- Hold the power button on the NAS down for five seconds. You’ll hear a beep. Let go. Let it shut down completely – might take a few minutes. Then put the button to restart.
NOTE: My understanding is that on the client side, Plex is responsible for updating the app. That’s on the Nvidia Shield, Google device. Roku stick or whatever.
Plex is responsible for developing, maintaining, and pushing updates for its official client applications. However, the actual process of delivering those updates to your device depends heavily on the specific platform you are using.
Here is how Plex client updates are managed across different devices:
📱 Mobile and Streaming Devices
For devices like iPhones, Android phones, Apple TV, Roku, Fire TV, and Android TV, Plex submits the updated app to the respective app stores.
- Your device’s operating system (e.g., iOS, Android, Roku OS) is responsible for downloading and installing the update.
- If updates are stalled, you usually need to trigger them manually through the App Store, Google Play Store, or Roku Channel Store.
💻 Desktop Applications
For official desktop clients like Plex for Windows or Plex for Mac:
- The Plex application itself checks for updates when launched.
- It will usually prompt you with a banner or pop-up to download and install the latest version directly within the app.
📺 Smart TVs
For built-in smart TV platforms (like Samsung Tizen, LG webOS, or Vizio):
- Plex develops the update and submits it to the TV manufacturer.
- The manufacturer reviews the app and pushes it out through the TV’s system updates. This process can sometimes take weeks or months, meaning smart TV clients often lag behind streaming devices like Roku or Apple TV.