Finally, I found the time to set up my first homelab. To get hands-on experience with advanced Linux topics, virtualization, and Kubernetes, I needed a dedicated server. The truth is, you don’t need anything fancy—an old laptop can work just fine. I opted for a mini version since I might need to carry it to different locations.
Specs
Let me introduce the HP EliteDesk 800 i5-6500T. It’s second-hand but in excellent condition.
- i5-6500T - 3.10 GHz (4 Cores, 4 Threads)
- 16GB RAM
- 2.5" 256GB SSD
- M.2 500GB (an extra space I bought)
- no WiFi, LAN only
Why
Until now, I’ve relied on either local computers or the cloud. While both have their advantages, they also come with significant costs, occasional lags, and the risk of corrupting local systems. With a homelab, I don’t have to worry about any of that. I can experiment freely without limitations.
This setup gives me the freedom to dive into anything I need to master Linux, Kubernetes, or any new technology. For now, I find 16GB of RAM and 3.10 GHz sufficient for my needs.
OS
At the moment, I’m using Ubuntu because I’m preparing for the LFCS exam. However, I plan to explore different distributions later to learn about their differences (e.g., Tuxedo OS, Arch Linux, Fedora, Gentoo, Void, and more).
Let’s learn. 🚀