Set up Cantinarr

A complete first setup, from an empty folder to a working request.

This guide uses Docker Compose. If you use Unraid or another app catalog, start with platform installation, then return to Create your administrator account below.

Before you start

Have a machine that can run Docker, a folder for Cantinarr’s data, and the address of a working Radarr, Sonarr, Chaptarr, or Lidarr instance. You can connect services later if you want to explore discovery first.

Cantinarr needs one persistent data folder and one HTTP port. Its web app is included. There is no separate database server to set up.

Start the server

Create a folder named cantinarr. Save this as compose.yaml inside it:

services:
  cantinarr:
    image: ghcr.io/windoze95/cantinarr:latest
    ports:
      - "8585:8585"
    volumes:
      - ./config:/config
    restart: unless-stopped

Open a terminal in that folder and run:

docker compose up -d

Open http://YOUR-SERVER-IP:8585 in a browser. Replace YOUR-SERVER-IP with your Docker machine’s address. localhost works only when the browser is on that machine.

You should see: the first-run setup screen. If the page does not open, check server connection problems.

Create your administrator account

Follow the setup screen to create the first administrator. Choose credentials you can keep securely. Open Settings after signing in.

Discovery works with the built-in TMDB key. The setup checklist shows optional features you can configure or skip. Skipping a checklist item only removes its reminder; it does not grant access or disable a configured feature.

Connect a library

Open Settings > Add Instance.
Choose the service type, then give it a name you will recognize.
Enter its base URL and credentials. Use an address the Cantinarr server can reach.
Test the connection and save.
For Radarr or Sonarr, choose the appropriate default library. For Chaptarr and Lidarr, grant access to each person who should use them.

On a shared Docker network, a Radarr address might be http://radarr:7878. On separate machines, use the reachable host address and published port. Do not use localhost to mean another container.

Follow the relevant setup guide for profiles, folders, and access:

You should see: a successful connection result and the service in Settings. A successful connection proves the API is reachable. It does not prove the service has working sources, disk access, or a download client.

Check instant updates

Cantinarr tries to install its authenticated webhook when you add a library manager. This lets imports and other changes reach the app promptly.

Open the saved instance and inspect Instant updates. If setup failed, set an address the library manager can reach, then choose Configure instant updates. See instant updates.

Make one request

Choose a title your connected library does not already contain. Request it, complete any approval, and verify that the exact title appears in the selected library manager.

If a suitable release exists, follow the download through import. If it has not been released yet, Requested is a valid result. Cantinarr cannot make a release available sooner.

Connect your people

Open Settings > Users, create a user, review their permissions and library access, and generate a connect link. A connect link signs one device in once. Passwords, passkeys, or configured single sign-on handle later sign-ins.

Before inviting anyone outside your home, configure a reachable HTTPS address and set Settings > External Address. See remote access and accounts and invitations.

Finish with the things you use

Connect Plex, Jellyfin, or Emby so people can open available titles.
Enable phone notifications when requests are ready.
Set approvals and request allowances.
Create a backup before you depend on the server.

You can stop here and use Cantinarr. The rest of the setup checklist is available whenever you need it.