Installation overview
Install with Docker is the recommended path for running the web Player. Use the prebuilt ghcr.io/kinosail/kinosail-player:latest container with the current deployment files. Git downloads those files; Go and a local image build are not required.
For Synology, TrueNAS, QNAP, CasaOS, Portainer, Unraid, or Proxmox VE, follow Install on a NAS or Proxmox. It links to importable Player and Subtitles files and explains the required media path.
The Docker guide installs the continuous container channel. You do not need a numbered GitHub release or an installer archive. Source builds remain a separate path for contributors and development.
Your first successful setup
- Install with Docker.
- Create and secure your Owner.
- Add your media.
- Play an item in your browser.
- Connect browsers and Jellyfin apps on your home network.
Keep media and state separate
| Location | Purpose | Backup treatment |
|---|---|---|
| Media path | Original movies, shows, music, books, and photos | Back up separately; Player mounts it read-only |
/config |
Profiles, settings, credentials, sessions, and viewing state | Included in state backups |
/cache |
Reproducible playback conversion data | Not included |
| Backup directory | Encrypted recovery archives | Protect with the backup key |
Follow backups and updates before relying on your Server for important state.
Development and evaluation
Use build from source if you are contributing or need to evaluate unpublished code. This is separate from installing the prebuilt container.