To build a home lab on Linux with Docker and Dockge/Portainer. Self hosting servers, services, websites and more. Using Ubuntu and Proxmox. Backed by TrueNAS.
Build
The Koozali SME Server is a server and gateway and an industrial-strength communications server that optionally allows all the computers on your network to share a single Internet connection. A FOSS server for small – medium-sized enterprises. Koozali SME Server 11 Alpha1 released on Feb 4th 2025.
MyNewLab
As we have moved, I need to downsize my lab drastically. I will create a series of posts how I create my new lab. Not only will I lower the number of servers but also use smaller machines, NUCs- and SFF-machines. As I need to do a lot of travelling, this will take a long time to get ready.
Build
A personalized SSH banner is fun. But also most companies have them. It is easy to do the banner. So follow this quick guide and you have one.
Alpine
Sometimes you need a small desktop on the cluster to do stuff. Alpine is a pure Linux OS, it's tiny. Adding a desktop, and it's there, a lightweight, minimalistic and customizable Linux experience in a VM. It uses Open RC, not Systemd.
Install
How to Install and Configure the Proxmox Virtual Environment (PVE).
Build
Security is very important, especially for home labs, we don't have the 24/7 IT-Security Staff to handle things. Several large attacks have recently been utilizing stolen credentials from home users. Yes, home labs are low-hanging fruit for hackers and especially wannabees.
Install
An SSL certificate displays important information for verifying the owner of a website and encrypting web traffic with SSL/TLS, including the public key, the issuer of the certificate, and the associated subdomains. HTTPS relies on certs.
Build
Deploy with Terraform and manage with Ansible. Automation for the Cloud and Home Lab. Setting up VM or K8s/K3s clusters are pretty boring, I prefer to use automation. What are the benefits of using Automation: Cost Reduction, Easy to Manage, Productivity, Security and Flexibility. IaC and CI/CD.
Build
Everyone needs Git Servers. A safe place for your GIT stuff in the home lab.
IaC
How to set up a VPS with Docker, Dockge to run NPM, Authelia and using apps like Ghost to host a homepage for our Home Lab. Later we will discuss Traefik and Authentic.
Basics
SDN The Software-Defined Network enables the creation of virtual zones and networks (VNets) including a DHCP. This functionality simplifies advanced network configurations for home labbing. The benefits in a more responsive and adaptable network infra. #pve #sdn
Build
In a home lab, you will use a lot of different OSes and a lot of tools to investigate issues. I use iPXE or 'pixie boot' to install them. I use Docker and Dockge to install NeytBootXYZ. You can download assets on demand or store them on your server. I am using Docker and Dockge to install it.