Home Lab

This repository holds the documentation for my home lab I've built up and guides for others wanting to build their own home network. Building your own home network is the best way to learn and can be much cheaper than you think.

Network Diagram

This is my current network configuration. I used Visio to create the diagram. NETWORK DIAGRAM.

Software Development Excellence

The best thing about having all of this equipment is being able to deliver high quality software. Every piece of software I write goes through my own Jenkins pipeline. This pipeline runs static code analysis tests to reduce the amount of bugs, vulnerabilities, and technical debt. I also write my own mocha security tests with Mocha to ensure my architecture is secure. Once all of these tests pass, the code gets merged into production, and automatically deployed. See the diagram. CODING PROCESS.

Deployment Process

My Hardware

Below is the hardware I use to run my home network. My network works great for my needs, but by no means could support several users. Building a network for enterprise use is a different beast. Define what you need and want from your home lab before even thinking about buying hardware. Do lots of research. Many hardware buying guides from bloggers and streamers spend way too much money. For example, if you are only going to store files and host your own website, it makes no sense to spend $3,000 on a server with 52 GB of RAM. It's tempting to buy the latest and greatest hardware. Always: 1.Ready 2.Aim 3.Fire

Networking Equipment

Function	Name	Cost $
Router/Firewall	Unifi USG	112
Switch	Unifi 8 port POE Switch	102
Wifi	Unifi UAC Pro	120
Rack/Rails/Shelves	18U 19"	170

Server

Function	Name	Cost $
Server	HP DL 380 G7	100
RAM	DDR3 SRAM 8GB x 6	16
CPU	Xeon E5645 2.4 Ghz x 2	16
Hard Drives	10 K SAS HP 300GB x 6	20
External Storage	8TB Seagate	120
UPS	Tripp Lite 1500VA	160

Wifi Hacking Practice

Function	Name	Cost $
Router/Wifi	Netgear WNR1000v2	30
Wifi Hacking Adapter	ALFA Networks AWUS036H USB 500mW	20
Victum Computer	Dell 8GB 2.4 Gz Win 7	0

Configuration Guides(in progress)

LINK

Buying a Server and Hardware buying guide

Use this LINK to buy servers. It filters ebay for servers based on your inputs.
Reddit also has a great write-up for getting started
Reddit Guide

Here is a great guide for making your own home NAS
DIY NAS

Community

This is a really great community for seeing what others do. Great resource for building your own homelab. Becareful browsing this sub-reddit too much... it may make you buy expensive equipment.
Reddit Home Lab