diff --git a/content/page/homelab/index.md b/content/page/homelab/index.md index afe6b6c..ab31475 100644 --- a/content/page/homelab/index.md +++ b/content/page/homelab/index.md @@ -30,21 +30,35 @@ I also wanted to spawn new virtual machines at will, rebuild them from scratch, Initially, my goal was to provide high availability for my existing services. One server wasn’t enough. So, I wanted a second node. But in most HA setups, three nodes are the sweet spot. And just like that, I was on my way to building what would become my homelab. ## Shaping the Lab -### Specifications -what I want to be able to do : -- host my existing services -- simulate enterprise environment -- 3 nodes for HA -- distributed storage for HA -- network / vlan for learning +### Blueprint + +First, I needed to define what my homelab was actually supposed to do. I wanted it to host my existing services reliably, but that wasn’t enough, I wanted a true playground, capable of simulating a more complex enterprise environment. + +That meant: +- **High Availability:** Three nodes to ensure that no single point of failure would bring everything down. +- **Distributed Storage:** Data redundancy across nodes, not just for uptime but also to learn how enterprise-grade storage systems work. +- **Network Segmentation:** Multiple VLANs to mimic real-world network topologies, isolate services, and practice advanced networking. + +Basically, I wanted to build a tiny datacenter in a closet. ### Constraints -- space: very small space, hidden in a service enclosure in the middle of the appartment -- noise: It must be silent because of its placement -- power: as running 24/7, the power draw must be reasonable -- budget: not cheap, but not too expensive + +Of course, reality doesn’t always align with ambitions. Here’s what I was up against: +- **Space:** My lab needed to fit in a small, hidden service enclosure in the middle of my apartment. Not exactly a server room. +- **Noise:** Silence was crucial. This wasn’t going to be tucked away in a garage or basement, it was right in the middle of our living space. +- **Power Draw:** Running 24/7, the power consumption had to be kept in check. I couldn’t afford to triple my electric bill just to tinker with VMs. +- **Budget:** I wasn’t going to drop thousands on enterprise-grade hardware. The balance was finding reliable, second-hand gear that wouldn’t break the bank. +- Temperature: I’m not gonna lie, I forgot about it.. Mini PCs don’t generate much heat, but network gear? That’s a different story. Lesson learned. ## Infrastructure Overview ### Rack + +What is a datacenter without a rack? Honestly, I didn’t think one would fit in my limited space, until I discovered the [DeskPi RackMate T1](https://deskpi.com/products/deskpi-rackmate-t1-2). + +This beauty was the perfect match. The size was spot-on, the build quality impressive, and the modular design allowed me to add some extra accessories, like a power strip and shelves, to complete the setup. ### Servers + +I was already having one server and I wanted to keep that first stone, but it had 2 main problems: +- Only one network interface, I wanted at least 2. +- Old ### Network ### Cooling ### Photos