The case for owning a server
I have just setup my own server rack, and, that thing is awesome.
Today, I will be sharing why I think everyone should own and maintain a server.
A server is not just those fancy, size of a cupboard machines, no, a server can basically be anything. Maybe a old Laptop that you have got lying, that no one is using, a mini pc, or even some proper server hardware. All will do the trick.
A server is basically an always on machine, that you can access from the internet.
A server also allows you to get free from the cloud. Have yaou ever purchased any subscriptions in the cloud, for more storage space? Or even have you purchased a subscription for a movie streaming service like Netflix or Amazon Prime? Well, with a server, you can do all of that, while reducing the amount you pay by over 98% (You only need to buy the physical storage, and, it is yours to keep forever.)
Well, how do we do that? The Answer is Linux. Over 96.4% of servers around the world run linux. It is a top tier os for servers. To make your own, you will need to learn how to install Linux, a bit of commands, and also, server software, and TRUST ME, it is all really easy. I recommend this video to get started: Youtube Link↗
This Video will show you how to get started setting up a home server. But, that is only the basics. Today, I am here to share some of the software that I personally use on my own home server, and, the thinking process behind using them. First, I use [Homer](https://github.com/bastienwirtz/homer) for my server dashboard. It shows me all the links to all the services running on the server.
I use Immich↗ for Photo Backup, OwnCloud↗ for Files, and Plex↗ for Movies / TV Shows.
One Final Thing, is that I have secured my entire stack behind Tailscale↗. Tailscale allows me to securely connect to my servers from anywhere, without exposing my services to the general internet. It basically configures a Tailnet (VPN Configuration) that my server is also connected to, so that our devices can communicate. Anyone that is not on the Tailnet, cannot access my server, and, Tailscale uses Google to Login, Which has 2FA.
It is a really good idea to host your own servers, as, in the long run, it can save you a lot of money, and, at the same time, giving you crucial skills about linux and server management.
I've also started experimenting with Docker↗ on my server. It's a game-changer for running multiple services without them interfering with each other. I can easily update or replace services without affecting the rest of my setup.
One aspect of server management that I didn't expect was how much I'd learn about networking. I've had to dive into topics like port forwarding, DHCP reservations, and DNS settings, Switches, Routers, and More. It's been a fantastic learning experience, and now I feel much more confident in managing and customizing my home network for my needs.
For backups, I've implemented a 3-2-1 strategy. I keep three copies of my data: one on the server, one on an external drive, and one off-site using Backblaze B2↗. Now, I know that I am strictly against storing your data in the cloud, unless it is your own, but, It gives me peace of mind knowing my data is safe even if something happens to my physical server.
Lastly, I want to mention the sense of accomplishment that comes with running your own server. There's something really satisfying about knowing that you're in control of your digital life, while essentially spending a fraction of the costs.
In the end, setting up and maintaining a home server has been an incredibly rewarding experience. It's not just about saving money or gaining technical skills – it's about taking control of your digital life and exploring the possibilities of what you can do with your own little corner of the internet. So why not give it a try? You might be surprised at what you can do with it!