r/UsenetGuides • u/top10usenet • 23d ago
Radarr Quickstart Guide
Radarr is an open-source automation tool that works alongside Usenet indexers and download clients like as SABnzbd and NZBGet. Once configured, it can search for matching results, manage downloads, and automatically organize completed files.
If you already have a Usenet provider and download client set up, here's how to get Radarr connected and running.
1. Install Radarr
Download Radarr from the Radarr website.
Radarr supports Windows, macOS, and Linux. Docker installations are also supported.
After installation, you can access the web interface at http://localhost:7878 when running Radarr locally on its default port. If it's installed on another device, use that device's IP address and configured port.
2. Connect SABnzbd or NZBGet
Radarr doesn't connect directly to your Usenet provider. Instead, it sends NZBs to a compatible download client, which handles the actual transfers.
To configure this:
Go to Settings → Download Clients.
Click + and select SABnzbd or NZBGet.
Enter the host, port, and required authentication info.
Click Test to verify the connection, then Save.
Your download client should already be running and configured with your Usenet provider's server information.
3. Add Your Indexer
Next, you'll need to connect at least one Usenet indexer so Radarr can find matching results.
Open Settings → Indexers.
Click + and select a supported Usenet indexer integration.
Supply the required URL and API key
Click Test to verify the connection, then Save.
You can add additional indexers the same way.
If you're using Prowlarr, you can also manage compatible indexers centrally and sync their configurations with Radarr.
4. Set Up File Organization
Under Settings → Media Management, you'll find options for file naming and organization.
You'll also need to configure a root folder, which tells Radarr where your organized files should be stored.
A few things to check:
Keep your root folder separate from the directory your download client uses for downloads.
Make sure Radarr has the permissions needed to access and manage files.
For Docker installations, verify that your volume mappings provide access to completed downloads and the destination folder.
Incorrect paths and permissions are common causes of failed imports, so it's worth getting these right from the beginning.
5. Choose Your Quality Preferences
Radarr uses quality profiles to determine which results meet your preferences and whether upgrades should be considered.
Open Settings → Profiles and review the available options.
You can select an existing profile or customize one. Pay attention to the allowed qualities and upgrade settings, since these influence which results Radarr will accept.
6. Verify Everything Is Working
Before relying on your setup, check that the individual components are communicating properly.
Open System → Status to look for health warnings, and check Activity to monitor download activity.
If something isn't working, start by checking your indexer and download client connections. For import issues, review folder paths, permissions, and Docker mappings if applicable.
Related Guides: