Emby with Tailscale

[ScottyT 7]

Hello everyone,

I propose integrating a Tailscale-like functionality directly into Emby clients and servers to facilitate remote connections without the necessity of a non CGNAT connection or opening up home firewalls and the security concerns that entails. 

While starting a Tailscale client is relatively straightforward for most tech-savvy individuals, it becomes less intuitive on devices like TVs (where it can't be autorun), often causing confusion among users. To circumvent this, I typically set up a NanoPI as a proxy for remote users, directing their Emby client to it. However, if the open sourced Tailscale client were integrated into Emby, clients could transparently connect from any location with an internet connection.

I understand that this integration would require significant effort, but I believe it would be a highly utilized and defining Premiere feature,  attracting users from other Emby alternatives.

Running the Emby server itself with the linuxserver.io docker mod is already straightforward, and the server can be easily referred to by a simple name rather than by an IP address or a lengthy FQDN. https://tailscale.dev/blog/docker-mod-tailscale

Anyway, food for thought. Keep up the good work.

Edited March 22, 2024 by ScottyT
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[Luke 39685]

Hi, the problem is this can’t be integrated into the web app, Roku, smart TV apps. It’s really only possible on Android, windows, and maybe Apple.

 So given that, that would lead to an inconsistent experience. It’s better in my opinion to pursue improvements that can be used universally.

[ScottyT 7]

Hi,

Yeah that's understood but a shame nonetheless. I do see most devices can run WebAssembly so that may always be an option?

 

[Luke 39685]

Sure, I suppose that can't be ruled out.

[rcsnoopdog 8]

On 22/03/2024 at 19:52, ScottyT said:

Hello everyone,

I propose integrating a Tailscale-like functionality directly into Emby clients and servers to facilitate remote connections without the necessity of a non CGNAT connection or opening up home firewalls and the security concerns that entails. 

While starting a Tailscale client is relatively straightforward for most tech-savvy individuals, it becomes less intuitive on devices like TVs (where it can't be autorun), often causing confusion among users. To circumvent this, I typically set up a NanoPI as a proxy for remote users, directing their Emby client to it. However, if the open sourced Tailscale client were integrated into Emby, clients could transparently connect from any location with an internet connection.

I understand that this integration would require significant effort, but I believe it would be a highly utilized and defining Premiere feature,  attracting users from other Emby alternatives.

Running the Emby server itself with the linuxserver.io docker mod is already straightforward, and the server can be easily referred to by a simple name rather than by an IP address or a lengthy FQDN. https://tailscale.dev/blog/docker-mod-tailscale

Anyway, food for thought. Keep up the good work.

Hello Rich here

I have been looking to use Tailscale but i am a bit stupid when it comes to network issues, I need TAILSCALE to bypass cgNAT for remote access, would a free account on here work for me, i have windows pc connected direct to router & want to give remote access to fiends & family,  i have about 5 different households i want to give remote access to with probably 4 or 5 tv's in each & maybe loads of phones & tablets, will i be able to do that with a free account, also what is NanoPi because when i googled it i got the impression it was a piece of equipment i would have to pay money for?

[Neminem 799]

Hard reality check...

Self hosting vs pay 5$ for a static ip.

1) Self hosting

Do you know what you doing ?

Do you need a NanoPi or do you have a work around ?

Do you want to educate your self ?

Do you know where to go when it breaks ?

2) pay 5$ for a static ip.

You have someone to blame.

You can call them if its not working.

 

but then again you should weigh it.

pros vs con. paid vs self ( someone to call )

Free almost vs paid. Its on you.

 

 

[rcsnoopdog 8]

I'm convinced static ip here i come, thanks Neminem

[olympus1 44]

After using all kind of ways for remote access the only thing I feel comfortable with is by using tailscale.

Opening ports when more and more ISPs block CGNAT, static IPs etc, and the most important of all... exposing my NAS to the internet is a big no for me for various reasons.

Using slow relays etc is also a no for me also for various reasons.

Nothing compares to the "easy to setup and always working", security, privacy and speed of a virtual private network.

It would be amazing if Emby someday would have some kind of tailscale integration.

So user would just add his tailscale account directly to the Emby app and won't have to install the tailscale app and to make sure it is open.

Edited February 23 by olympus1