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How to Set Up Stash App Using Docker

January 13, 20264 min readBy StashHosting Team

This guide shows you how to install Stash App using Docker. It uses simple steps and easy words. If you can use a terminal, you can do this.

The Easiest Way: Use StashHosting

Before diving into the technical setup, there's an even simpler option: StashHosting.com.

If you want to use Stash without any technical setup, server maintenance, or Docker configurations, StashHosting provides fully managed Stash hosting. You get:

  • Zero technical setup required
  • Automatic updates and maintenance
  • Professional server infrastructure
  • Pay only for the storage you need

Want the easiest path? Get started with StashHosting and skip the rest of this guide.

Prefer self-hosting? Keep reading for the Docker setup instructions.

What Is Stash App

Stash App is a self hosted app for organizing video files. You can scan folders, add tags, and browse your library in a web browser. If you're comparing Stash to other media servers, check out our guides on Stash vs Plex and Stash vs Jellyfin.

Why Use Docker

Docker makes setup easier.

  • No manual installs
  • Works the same on most computers
  • Easy to update
  • Keeps files safe using folders called volumes

What You Need Before Starting

Make sure you have:

  • Docker installed
  • Docker Compose installed
  • A folder for your videos
  • Basic terminal knowledge

Step 1: Pull the Stash Docker Image

Open a terminal and run:

docker pull stashapp/stash:latest

This downloads the latest version of Stash.

Step 2: Create a docker-compose.yml File

Create a new file called docker-compose.yml. Paste this inside it:

version: "3.4"
services:
  stash:
    image: stashapp/stash:latest
    container_name: stash
    restart: unless-stopped
    ports:
      - "9999:9999"
    environment:
      - STASH_PORT=9999
      - STASH_STASH=/data
      - STASH_METADATA=/metadata
      - STASH_CACHE=/cache
      - STASH_GENERATED=/generated
    volumes:
      - ./config:/root/.stash
      - ./data:/data
      - ./metadata:/metadata
      - ./cache:/cache
      - ./generated:/generated

Step 3: Start Stash

In the same folder as the file, run:

docker compose up -d

Docker will start Stash in the background.

Step 4: Open Stash in Your Browser

Open your browser and go to:

http://localhost:9999

If Stash is on another computer, replace localhost with its IP address.

Step 5: Add Your Video Files

Put your videos into the data folder you created. Then open Stash and run a scan. Stash will find your files and add them to the library.

How to Update Stash

To update Stash later:

docker compose down
docker compose pull
docker compose up -d

Your data stays safe because it is stored in folders on your system.

Helpful Tips

  • Always back up your folders
  • Use full paths if running on a server or NAS
  • You can use a reverse proxy later if you want a domain name

Summary

You now know how to set up Stash App using Docker.

However, if you found this process complex or don't want to manage servers yourself, StashHosting is the truly easiest way to run Stash App:

  • No technical setup - We handle everything
  • Automatic updates - Always on the latest version
  • Professional infrastructure - Fast, reliable servers
  • No maintenance - Focus on your content, not server management
  • Scalable storage - Pay only for what you need

Ready to Get Started?

Self-hosting with Docker? Follow the steps above and you're ready to use Stash.

Want the hassle-free option? Visit StashHosting.com to get started in minutes, or check our FAQ for common questions about our managed hosting service.

For more information about Stash and how it compares to alternatives, read our comparison guides:

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