Home Lab vs Home Server πŸ’»

Overview of Home Server and Home Lab

In this blog post, I would like to give you a brief overview of what is behind the terms home server and home lab.

The Home Server 🏠πŸ–₯️

A home server is a device that you can use to store and access your data from home instead of storing it in the cloud. It can be a computer or a hardware network-attached storage (NAS). One of the most common problems is probably the storage and availability of data.

Summary

  • Typically, it’s one computer πŸ–₯️
  • Limited services πŸ–¨οΈπŸ’ΎπŸŽ¬
  • Runs productively πŸ‹

The Home Lab πŸ πŸ”¬πŸ§ͺ

A home lab is a safe environment where you can experiment with new tools and test procedures. It typically consists of several computers, network components (such as switches, routers, and patch panels), and a variety of different services. It is often used to try out new tools and test procedures.

Summary

  • Several computers πŸ–₯️πŸ–₯️
  • Many different services
  • Does not run productively or encapsulated 🚧
  • Often with extra network components πŸ•ΈοΈ

My Setup

I run a few VMs and containers and have also installed a few network components and a backup system. Although I don’t like to call it a home lab, my setup probably fits the description.

Here are some of the services I run on my home server:

  • Version control system
  • Cloud instance
  • Documentation
  • VPN
  • Configuration management
  • Home automation

In future blog posts, I will show you how my home server is built, including the hardware, software, backup system, and security measures I have put in place.