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Plex.tv/link is the official way to connect your TV or streaming stick to your Plex account with a quick 4-character code. If you have ever stared at your television screen wondering where and how to type that code, this guide will walk you through every step so you can start watching in seconds. When you open the Plex app on a television, game console, or streaming device, you usually cannot type a long email and password with a remote control. Plex solves this by showing a short code on the big screen. You then enter that code on a phone, tablet, or computer at plex.tv/link. Once the code is accepted, the TV app logs in automatically. The process is often called device linking, activation, or pairing. The code is typically four characters long and mixes letters and numbers. It is temporary and expires after a short period. Each code can only be used once, so if you wait too long or make a mistake, you simply generate a fresh one on the TV.

Where the code appears on your device

Before you can enter anything, you need to know where to look on the television screen.

Smart TVs and streaming sticks

  1. Open the Plex app on your device.
  2. Look for an option labeled Sign In, Activate, or Link Device.
  3. The app will display a screen that shows a 4-character code and the URL https://www.plex.tv/link.
This screen stays visible while you switch to another device to complete the steps. If you see a home screen instead of a code, navigate to the settings or profile menu and choose the sign-in option.

Game consoles and set-top boxes

On Xbox, PlayStation, and devices like the Nvidia Shield, the same flow applies. Launch Plex, select sign in, and watch for the activation screen. Some models may also show a QR code, but the 4-character code method is the most common.
1

Open Plex on your TV and request a code

Using your remote, open the Plex app and choose Sign In or Link Device. A 4-character code will appear on screen together with the plex.tv/link address.
2

Switch to a phone, tablet, or computer

Do not try to type the code with the TV remote. Instead, grab a second device that has a web browser. A smartphone works perfectly.
3

Go to plex.tv/link in your browser

Type https://www.plex.tv/link into the browser address bar and press enter. Make sure you are on the official Plex domain.
4

Sign in to your Plex account

If you are not already signed in, enter your Plex email and password, or choose Continue with Google, Apple, or Facebook. Plex accounts are free; a Plex Pass subscription is optional and not required for linking.
5

Type the 4-character code exactly

Carefully enter the code shown on your TV. Double-check each character. Common mix-ups include the number 0 and the letter O, the number 1 and the letter I, and the number 5 and the letter S.
6

Select Link or Submit

After typing the code, press the Link or Submit button. Within a few seconds, your TV app should refresh and sign in automatically.
If the TV does not log in right away, give it ten to fifteen seconds. Some devices need a moment to contact Plex servers and refresh the session.

Typing tips to avoid common mistakes

Because the code is short, a single wrong character will block the whole process. Keep these tips in mind:
  • Use uppercase letters exactly as shown. Most codes are case-insensitive, but matching the screen reduces guesswork.
  • Do not include spaces, dashes, or extra characters.
  • If the code contains a zero, make sure you did not type the letter O.
  • If the code contains a one, make sure you did not type a lowercase L or uppercase I.
  • If your browser autofills a password into the code box, clear it and type manually.
  • Disable VPNs or ad blockers temporarily if the page behaves strangely.
If you are using a password manager, it may try to fill the code field with saved credentials. Tap or click the field, clear it, and type the TV code by hand.

What to do if the code is expired or invalid

Codes are temporary by design. If you see an error such as “code expired” or “invalid code,” follow these steps:
  1. Return to your TV and press the button to request a new code. This is usually labeled Get New Code, Refresh, or simply going back and choosing Sign In again.
  2. On your phone or computer, reload plex.tv/link.
  3. Sign in again if needed, then type the fresh code quickly.
If you still get an error, make sure you are signed into the correct Plex account in your browser. Sometimes users have more than one account and accidentally link to the wrong one.
Do not share your TV code with others while it is on screen. Anyone with the code and access to plex.tv/link could link their account to your device until the code expires.

Frequently asked questions

Most TV and streaming device apps do not let you type the code with the remote. The intended flow is to open plex.tv/link on a separate phone, tablet, or computer. Some apps may offer email sign-in or a QR code as alternatives.
Check that the TV is connected to the internet. Restart the Plex app or the device itself. Also confirm you are signed into the same Plex account on both the browser and the TV. If problems persist, clear your browser cache or try a private browsing window.

Plex.tv/Link Activation Guide

A complete walkthrough of the linking process from start to finish for any screen.

Fix Plex.tv/Link Code Problems

Step-by-step fixes for expired codes, typos, browser issues, and more.

Step-by-Step Link Device to Plex.tv/Link

Detailed device-specific instructions for linking your streaming hardware.

Where to Enter Plex Activation Code

Learn the exact URL, browser tips, and what to expect after you submit the code.

Disclaimer

This is an independent informational guide and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by Plex Inc. Plex and Plex Pass are trademarks of their respective owners. Steps and menu names can change with app updates; for official help visit the Plex Support site at https://support.plex.tv.