Introduction Block
When the grid goes down and the internet disappears, most modern entertainment options vanish with it. For preppers, this isn’t just inconvenient—it’s a loss of morale, education, and normalcy. This guide will show you how to convert your DVD collection into digital files and set up your own offline Plex server. Once done, you’ll have access to your personal movie library anytime, anywhere—no internet required.
🧰 What You’ll Need
- A computer (Windows, macOS, or Linux)
- DVD drive (internal or USB)
- External storage (USB or SSD, optional but recommended)
- MakeMKV – rip DVDs
- HandBrake – compress videos
- Plex Media Server – manage and stream your library
- (Optional) A Raspberry Pi, old laptop, or mini-PC for a dedicated offline Plex box
📀 Step 1: Rip DVDs Using MakeMKV
MakeMKV is free and simple to use. It converts DVD content into .mkv files with no quality loss.
How to rip a DVD:
- Install and launch MakeMKV.
- Insert your DVD.
- Click “Open Disc.”
- Select the main title (usually the biggest file).
- Choose your output folder.
- Click “Make MKV.”
⚠️ MKV files are large—typically 4–8 GB each. You’ll compress them next.
🔧 Step 2: Compress Videos with HandBrake
HandBrake reduces file size while keeping excellent video quality. Ideal for storing more videos in less space.
To compress your video:
- Open HandBrake and load the
.mkvfile. - Choose the “Fast 1080p30” preset.
- Name your output file using this format:
MovieTitle (Year).mp4. - Click Start Encode.
⏱️ Time depends on your hardware—anywhere from 5 to 30 minutes per movie.
📂 Step 3: Organize Your Media
Create a clean, Plex-friendly structure:
javaCopyEdit/Movies
/The Matrix (1999)
The Matrix (1999).mp4
/Tremors (1990)
Tremors (1990).mp4
🧠 Plex uses the folder name and file naming to identify your movies and pull metadata (even offline, if already fetched).
⚙️ Step 4: Install and Configure Plex
Download Plex:
- Go to plex.tv/media-server-downloads
- Install Plex Media Server for your OS.
Initial Setup:
- Open Plex and create/sign in to an account (optional for offline use).
- Name your server (e.g., “BugOutBox”).
- Add a Movies library and select your folder.
- Plex will scan and organize your collection.
🛰️ Step 5: Use Plex Without Internet
Once set up, Plex works offline as long as it’s on the same local network.
To access your server offline:
- Launch Plex Media Server on your PC.
- Open your browser and go to
http://localhost:32400/web - Devices (smart TVs, phones, tablets) must be connected to the same local Wi-Fi.
🧠 Plex remembers previously loaded metadata, so no internet is needed for playback.
🧳 Bonus: Make Plex Portable for Grid-Down Use
🪫 Option 1: USB Plex Server
- Install Plex and your movie collection on a USB SSD.
- Plug it into any Windows PC and run Plex locally.
🖥️ Option 2: Raspberry Pi Media Server
- Install Plex on a Raspberry Pi 4.
- Store media on a microSD or external drive.
- Connect to devices via a portable Wi-Fi router or Ethernet.
💻 Option 3: Old Laptop as Offline Server
- Convert an old laptop into a dedicated Plex box.
- Auto-start Plex at boot.
- Ideal for cabins, RVs, or bug-out shelters.
🎯 Why Preppers Should Build a Digital Library
- Boost morale during long outages
- Entertain and educate kids in stressful times
- Preserve cultural & instructional content offline
- Barter value: Share shows, movies, or even prepper tutorials
This solution gives you control over your entertainment and educational content. Once configured, Plex becomes your personal, portable, offline Netflix — but without the subscriptions or surveillance.
📦 Final Checklist
✅ DVD Drive
✅ MakeMKV Installed
✅ HandBrake Installed
✅ Plex Media Server
✅ Organized Video Folder
✅ Backup on External Drive or Portable Server
Need help getting started or choosing the right hardware for an off-grid Plex setup? Leave a comment or contact us — we’re happy to help fellow preppers future-proof their entertainment.
