Home Server Build Log: Squeezing Every Last Bit Out of One Mini PC
I installed Ubuntu on a mini PC that was sitting unused at home, deployed various services on it, and have been using it for a few months. I started out just wanting a NAS, but one thing led to another and the setup kept growing. I figured I'd write down my notes for myself.
- Start with virtualization via Proxmox. It's genuinely convenient when you add more services later.
- File server with Nextcloud. The initial setup is a bit of a hassle, though.
- Video streaming with Jellyfin. I like that it connects directly from the TV app.
- Ad-blocking DNS with AdGuard Home. This alone makes the whole house's network much more pleasant.
- External access via WireGuard. A must for security.
Power consumption is just a few thousand won a month because it's a mini PC. It's far cheaper than buying a NAS, and there's fun in tinkering with it yourself.
The thing to watch out for is backups. At first I ran it without backups, and when one disk died I almost lost years' worth of photos. Now I back up regularly to an external drive, and keep important files in the cloud as a second copy.
I recommend a home server to people for whom "the server itself is the hobby." If you just want something convenient, buying a NAS is better for your mental health.