Setting Up Your Localnode for the First Time

Welcome to your new LocalNode! Your device arrives fully configured and ready to use, but there are a few physical steps you need to take to get it running in your home. This guide will walk you through the entire process step-by-step.

Overview

The LocalNode is designed to be plug-and-play. You do not need to install an operating system, configure a database, or use the command line. Everything is pre-installed on the internal drive. All you need to do is plug it into power, connect it to your router, and optionally connect it to a TV if you plan to use it as a direct media player.

Step 1: Unboxing and Powering On

Remove the LocalNode device, the power adapter, and the included Ethernet cable from the box.
Find a well-ventilated spot near your home router or switch. The device runs silently but needs space to dissipate heat.
Plug the power adapter into the wall, and connect the barrel jack to the back of the LocalNode.
Press the power button on the front of the device. The LED indicator will light up blue, indicating the system is booting.

💡 Tip: The first boot may take up to two minutes as the system initializes its pre-installed apps and sets up your local network certificates. Subsequent reboots will be much faster.

Illustration pending

LocalNode hardware showing labeled ports for power, Ethernet, HDMI, and peripheral connections shipped with your unit.

Reserved for a LocalNode product screenshot when available; UI layout may differ from third-party docs.

Step 2: Connecting to your TV or Monitor (Optional)

If you plan to use your LocalNode as a direct playback device in your living room (to watch Jellyfin right on the screen), you need to connect it to your TV.

Take an HDMI cable (not included) and plug one end into the HDMI port on the back of the LocalNode.
Plug the other end into an available HDMI port on your TV.
Turn on your TV and switch to the correct HDMI input. You should see the LocalNode startup screen or the Jellyfin Media Player interface.

If you only want to use the LocalNode as a server (and stream to other devices like Roku, Apple TV, or your phone), you can skip this step completely. The LocalNode runs perfectly "headless" without a monitor.

Step 3: Connecting to your Network

Your LocalNode must be connected to your home network so other devices can talk to it. For the best performance, especially when streaming 4K media, a wired connection is strongly recommended.

Take the included Ethernet cable and plug one end into the Ethernet port on the back of the LocalNode.
Plug the other end directly into a LAN port on your home Wi-Fi router or network switch.
Wait about 30 seconds for your router to assign an IP address to the LocalNode.

⚠️ Warning: While it is possible to configure Wi-Fi later, the initial setup absolutely requires an Ethernet connection so your apps can start correctly and become accessible on your network.

Next Steps

Congratulations! Your LocalNode is now powered on and connected to your network. Your next step is to access the dashboard from your laptop or phone to start using your apps.

Need help? Email hello@localnode.tech or visit localnode.tech/contact.

Overview

Step 1: Unboxing and Powering On

Remove the LocalNode device, the power adapter, and the included Ethernet cable from the box.
Find a well-ventilated spot near your home router or switch. The device runs silently but needs space to dissipate heat.
Plug the power adapter into the wall, and connect the barrel jack to the back of the LocalNode.
Press the power button on the front of the device. The LED indicator will light up blue, indicating the system is booting.

💡 Tip: The first boot may take up to two minutes as the system initializes its pre-installed apps and sets up your local network certificates. Subsequent reboots will be much faster.

Illustration pending

LocalNode hardware showing labeled ports for power, Ethernet, HDMI, and peripheral connections shipped with your unit.

Reserved for a LocalNode product screenshot when available; UI layout may differ from third-party docs.

Step 2: Connecting to your TV or Monitor (Optional)

If you plan to use your LocalNode as a direct playback device in your living room (to watch Jellyfin right on the screen), you need to connect it to your TV.

Take an HDMI cable (not included) and plug one end into the HDMI port on the back of the LocalNode.
Plug the other end into an available HDMI port on your TV.
Turn on your TV and switch to the correct HDMI input. You should see the LocalNode startup screen or the Jellyfin Media Player interface.

Step 3: Connecting to your Network

Your LocalNode must be connected to your home network so other devices can talk to it. For the best performance, especially when streaming 4K media, a wired connection is strongly recommended.

Take the included Ethernet cable and plug one end into the Ethernet port on the back of the LocalNode.
Plug the other end directly into a LAN port on your home Wi-Fi router or network switch.
Wait about 30 seconds for your router to assign an IP address to the LocalNode.

⚠️ Warning: While it is possible to configure Wi-Fi later, the initial setup absolutely requires an Ethernet connection so your apps can start correctly and become accessible on your network.

Next Steps

Congratulations! Your LocalNode is now powered on and connected to your network. Your next step is to access the dashboard from your laptop or phone to start using your apps.

Need help? Email hello@localnode.tech or visit localnode.tech/contact.

Setting Up Your Localnode for the First Time

Overview

Step 1: Unboxing and Powering On

Step 2: Connecting to your TV or Monitor (Optional)

Step 3: Connecting to your Network

Next Steps

Was this helpful?

More in Getting Started

Accessing Home Assistant Remotely

Overview

Step 1: Unboxing and Powering On

Step 2: Connecting to your TV or Monitor (Optional)

Step 3: Connecting to your Network

Next Steps