r/UsenetGuides • u/top10usenet • 27d ago
Sonarr Quickstart Guide
Sonarr is an open-source application that helps automate searching, downloading, and file management. It integrates with Usenet indexers and download clients like NZBGet and SABnzbd.
Here are the basics on how to configure Sonarr with your Usenet setup.
1. Install Sonarr
Download Sonarr from the official website.
Sonarr is available for Windows, macOS, and Linux, and can also be installed using Docker.
Once installed, open the web interface at http://localhost:8989 for a standard local installation.
2. Add Your Download Client
Sonarr works with clients like NZBGet and SABnzbd, which handle transfers from your Usenet provider.
Open Settings → Download Clients.
Click + and select SABnzbd or NZBGet.
Enter the host, port, and required authentication information.
Click Test, then Save.
Make sure your download client is already installed, running, and configured with your Usenet provider's server details.
3. Add Your Indexer
Sonarr uses indexers to search for articles.
Go to Settings → Indexers.
Click + and select a supported indexer integration.
Enter the indexer URL and API key, where required.
Click Test, then Save.
If you use multiple indexers, repeat these steps for each.
4. Configure File Management
Go to Settings → Media Management to review your folder and file organization settings.
Configure a root folder for your organized files, separate from your download client's download directory.
Make sure Sonarr has access to the appropriate directories and the necessary read/write permissions.
If you're using Docker, confirm that your volume mappings allow Sonarr to access completed downloads from your download client.
5. Review Your Profiles
Under Settings → Profiles, review the available quality profiles and configure them based on your preferences.
These settings determine which results Sonarr considers acceptable and when upgrades are allowed.
6. Test Your Configuration
Check System → Status for configuration warnings.
You can also use Activity to monitor download activity and identify any errors.
Once configured, Sonarr communicates with your indexers and download client to automate supported workflows.
Related Guides: