how to update jellyfin

3 min read 28-02-2025

Jellyfin is a fantastic open-source media server, but keeping it up-to-date is crucial for enjoying the latest features, security patches, and performance improvements. This guide will walk you through updating Jellyfin, regardless of your installation method. We'll cover updates on various platforms, troubleshooting common issues, and best practices to ensure a smooth update process.

Updating Jellyfin: Different Installation Methods

The update process varies slightly depending on how you initially installed Jellyfin. Let's break it down by common methods:

1. Updating Jellyfin from Docker

Docker offers a streamlined update process. Here's how to update your Jellyfin Docker container:

Stop the Jellyfin Container: First, stop the running Jellyfin container using the following command in your terminal:
```
docker stop jellyfin
```
Pull the Latest Image: Next, pull the latest version of the Jellyfin image from Docker Hub:
```
docker pull linuxserver/jellyfin
```
Start the Updated Container: Finally, restart your Jellyfin container. Docker will automatically use the newly pulled image:
```
docker start jellyfin
```

Important Note: If you've made custom configurations, remember to back them up before updating. You can usually find your configuration files in the container's data volume.

2. Updating Jellyfin from a Package Manager (e.g., apt, yum, pacman)

If you installed Jellyfin using your system's package manager (like apt on Debian/Ubuntu, yum on CentOS/RHEL, or pacman on Arch Linux), updating is usually straightforward:

Update Package Lists: Begin by updating your system's package list. The command varies depending on your distribution:
- Debian/Ubuntu (apt): sudo apt update
- CentOS/RHEL (yum): sudo yum update
- Arch Linux (pacman): sudo pacman -Syu
Upgrade Jellyfin: Once the package list is updated, upgrade Jellyfin using the appropriate command:
- Debian/Ubuntu (apt): sudo apt upgrade jellyfin
- CentOS/RHEL (yum): sudo yum update jellyfin
- Arch Linux (pacman): sudo pacman -Su jellyfin
Verify the Update: After the upgrade, check the Jellyfin version to confirm the update was successful. You can usually do this through the web interface.

3. Updating Jellyfin from a Manual Installation (e.g., .zip, .tar.gz)

Updating a manually installed Jellyfin instance requires downloading the latest release and then replacing the existing files. This is the most complex method and carries a higher risk of errors.

Back Up Your Data: Before starting, back up your entire Jellyfin installation directory, including the config folder and your media library. This is crucial in case something goes wrong.
Download the Latest Release: Download the latest release from the official Jellyfin website. Choose the appropriate version for your operating system.
Stop the Jellyfin Service: Stop the Jellyfin service before proceeding. The exact command depends on how you started it.
Replace Files: Carefully replace the contents of your Jellyfin installation directory with the contents of the newly downloaded archive. Be cautious not to overwrite your configuration or data files.
Start the Jellyfin Service: Start the Jellyfin service again.

Troubleshooting Jellyfin Updates

If you encounter problems during the update process, here are some common issues and solutions:

Database Errors: If you encounter database errors, ensure your database server is running and accessible. You might need to repair the database or restore from a backup.
Permission Issues: Incorrect file permissions can prevent the update from completing. Check file permissions and ensure the Jellyfin user has the necessary access rights.
Conflicting Packages: If you are using a package manager, make sure all packages are up-to-date before updating Jellyfin.

Best Practices for Updating Jellyfin

Regular Updates: Schedule regular updates to benefit from the latest features and security patches.
Backups: Always back up your data before updating, especially when manually installing.
Check Release Notes: Review the release notes for the new version to understand any changes or potential issues.
Test After Update: After updating, verify that everything is working correctly.

By following these steps and best practices, you can keep your Jellyfin server current and enjoy a smooth, uninterrupted media streaming experience. Remember to always consult the official Jellyfin documentation for the most up-to-date and detailed instructions.