Welcome to my digital playground
This space documents my ongoing exploration of Linux, home networking and lab environments, all powered by my self-hosted setup
Learning, fun, and experimentation are at the core
Here's my current network layout built on VLANs, OpenWRT and a Proxmox server
My Homelab Journey
Everything started with an insatiable curiosity. The more I learned about networking, Linux, and cybersecurity, the more I craved a hands-on system to put theory into practice. My journey began with a modest, openWRT compatible modem-router I bought off Amazon. I quickly ran into issues, especially with its Wi-Fi performance which led me to dive deep into understanding how different hardware operates and the challenges of optimizing software across diverse devices.
Determined to achieve a robust and highly customizable setup, I set my sights on the Belkin RT3200, a favorite among the OpenWRT community for its quality/price ratio. I pounced on a great deal when it appeared, marking the real start of my homelab adventure.
At that time, I was enrolled in a Cisco Networking Academy course for Junior Cybersecurity Analysts. This experience not only deepened my network and security knowledge but also laid the foundation for my homelab.
Driven by this newfound expertise, I redesigned my home wiring:
- I purchased a 50-meter CAT6 cable and a few connectors, then meticulously crimped and arranged the cables throughout my house.
- Early experiments included using my ThinkPad, a managed switch, and a couple of Raspberry Pis.
- Once I outgrew this basic setup, I found a gem, a refurbished HP EliteDesk 800 G2 Mini for just 77ā¬. I love reviving old, reliable hardware: as soon as a device lands in my hands, I disassemble it, clean it up, replace the thermal paste, and get it running. Today, I run Proxmox on my EliteDesk, turning it into the heart of my homelab where I host services and push my technical limits.
Network Configurations
- OpenWRT Router:
- My LAN: Serves primary devices via Ethernet, 2.4 GHz, and 5 GHz Wi-Fi.
- IoT Interface: Isolates IoT devices, smart TVs, and secondary gadgets.
- Alex Interface: Provides network access for my brother-in-lawās router, which I set up for his dwelling.
- VPN Interface: Facilitates secure WireGuard connections between my router and laptop through an VPS.
- VLAN90 Interface: Dedicated solely to a Debian machine running on Proxmox, which currently hosts this very WordPress service inside a Docker container.
Firewall:
Each interface has tailored firewall rulesāonly permitting DHCP and DNS access. While the primary LAN can access other interfaces for troubleshooting, VLAN90 remains completely isolated. (Note: I operate behind a CGNAT.)
VLANs:
Using a managed switch, I configured trunk ports and segmented my network:- VLAN10: Tagged on port 2 for the primary LAN.
- VLAN20: Tagged on ports 3, 4, and 5 for IoT devices.
- VLAN90: Tagged on port 3, dedicated to the EliteDesk connection for enhanced security.
Devices in My Homelab
Belkin RT3200 WiFi 6 Router (OpenWRT)
Running OpenWRT, this router manages my network with VLANs, custom firewall rules, and advanced networking configurations for better control and security.
TP-Link TL-SG605E (Managed Switch)
A 5-port managed switch where Iāve set up VLANs and a trunk port, helping to segment my network and improve security.
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- HP EliteDesk 800 G2 Mini 65W:
Originally shipped with 8GB RAM and a 120GB Kingston SSD, I upgraded its RAM to 16GB. It also features a free M.2 NVMe slot for future expansion. Running Proxmox, it hosts: - A Home Assistant VM (using the official image) for home automation.
- A Debian container for Pi-hole (currently powered off).
- A Debian VM with Docker, which runs WordPress and MariaDBāsupporting this very website.
Raspberry Pi 4 8GB:
Equipped with a 64GB SSD, it served as my Home Assistant server before the EliteDesk took over. Iām planning a new project for it soon.Raspberry Pi 400:
Running LineageOS, this device is connected via HDMI to a TV, adding smart functionalities.- Lenovo ThinkPad T480s:
My primary PC, which I purchased used for around 250ā¬ on eBay. With 16GB RAM, a 500GB M.2 SSD, a WWAN module, and an i7-8550U CPU, it has transitioned from Ubuntu and Fedora to a more hands-on Arch Linux installation, a true labor of love for my passion for Linux.
A Work in Progress
My homelab, both in terms of hardware and software, is a continuous work in progress. There will never be a āfinalā configurationāand thatās the best part of it. Every new device, every reconfiguration, and every experiment is a step forward in my journey of discovery and mastery.
How I Keep Learning: Courses, Certifications, and Self-Study
My journey in IT and technology is fueled by a deep passion for continuous learning and hands-on experimentation. Over the years, I have combined formal education, professional certifications, and self-driven studies to build a solid foundation in Linux system administration, networking, and cybersecurity ā always focusing on practical, real-world applications through my homelab.
š§ Self-Learning and Continuous Growth
- Linux System Administration and Troubleshooting:
Daily hands-on work with Ubuntu, Fedora, Arch Linux, OpenWRT and other Linux distros, both on desktops and servers within my homelab. I continuously explore system services, user and permission management, package managers, virtualization, and containers. - Networking and Cybersecurity:
In-depth self-study on OSI model, TCP/IP stack, VLANs, VPNs, subnetting, firewalls, and network segmentation, complemented by real-world implementation in my home network. - Open-Source and Practical IT Projects:
I actively experiment with open-source software, from Home Assistant, Pi-hole, Proxmox, Dockerized environments, to custom router and firewall setups. I focus on using affordable and repurposed hardware, always pushing to optimize and secure my configurations. - Hardware Repairs and DIY Networking:
I enjoy rebuilding and repairing hardware, setting up physical LAN cabling, and crimping custom network connections to build and optimize my home network infrastructure. - Listening to Tech Podcasts in English:
To keep improving my technical English and stay inspired, I regularly listen to podcasts like the Self-Hosted Podcast, which aligns closely with my homelab interests.
š Certifications
- Junior Cybersecurity Analyst ā Cisco Networking Academy
View Credential
This certification deepened my understanding of network security, threat analysis, vulnerabilities, and attack vectors. Through practical labs and coursework, I gained valuable skills in network protection and cybersecurity principles.
- LE-1: Linux Essentials Certificate ā Linux Professional Institute (LPI)
View Credential
This certification validated my foundational skills in GNU/Linux command-line usage, system architecture, open-source concepts, and day-to-day administration tasks.
- EF SET English Certificate (C2 Proficient)
View Credential
- Docker Per Comuni Mortali – Udemy Course
View Credential
A certification of C2 proficiency level in English, demonstrating my ability to read, understand, and communicate technical content fluently, including professional documentation and communication in international environments.
A hands-on course focused on making Docker approachable and practical. I learned the basics of image creation, container management, and application deployment through real-world mini projects, helping me confidently apply Docker within my homelab.
š Education
- Diploma in Computer Science and Telecommunications
Technical Institute of Technology (2017 ā 2022)
During this course, I gained essential knowledge of computer systems, networking, and telecommunications, building the technical foundations for my career in IT.
Other Stuff I Like
Besides building and managing my home lab, I enjoy getting my hands dirty with all kinds of tech-related projects.
š§ Smartphone Repairs and Microsoldering
I like giving a second life to smartphones and gadgets by repairing them ā whether it’s replacing broken screens, swapping out batteries, or fixing hardware issues. Recently, I even got myself a soldering station to start learning microsoldering, aiming to dive deeper into board-level repairs. It’s a challenging but exciting new world!
š” DIY Electrical Projects and Smart Home Experiments
I’m also into small electrical jobs around the house, especially when they help me improve or extend my smart home setup. I love finding ways to integrate smart devices into everyday life, making things more efficient and fun.
š£ļø Practicing English Every Day
Although Iām not a native speaker, Iām constantly practicing English, reading technical documentation, following international communities, watching content, and listening to technical podcasts like the Self-Hosted Podcast to improve fluency.
š§āš» Helping People with Tech Issues
Helping friends, family, and anyone who reaches out with their tech problems is something I genuinely enjoy. Whether it’s software troubleshooting, network setup, or fixing a slow laptop, I like solving problems and explaining solutions in an easy way for others to understand.
š® Gaming? Maybe Later…
Fun fact: I bought a Steam Deck thinking I would enjoy some gaming in my free time ā but truth is, my passion for learning and experimenting often wins over gaming. So, for now, it’s collecting dust on a shelf while I explore the next tech challenge!
šāāļø Staying Active with Sports
While tech keeps my brain busy, I also like to stay physically active. I enjoy playing soccer with friends, going for runs, and hitting the gym every now and then. It helps me recharge, stay healthy, and keep a good balance between mind and body.
About Me
My name is Andrea, I’m a passionate technology enthusiast with a deep love for IT, Linux, and networking. I spent 17 years serving in the Italian Army, where I developed and refined leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills as a Team Commander. That experience taught me to approach every challenge with a calm, analytical mindset, one that now drives my technical explorations.
I earned my diploma in Computer Science and I dedicate myself to continuous learning through hands-on projects and formal certifications in Linux, networking, and cybersecurity. Whether I’m setting up my home lab, repairing hardware, or troubleshooting tech issues for friends and family, I believe in learning by doing and constantly pushing my limits.
Always curious, I love diving into new technologies, experimenting with different Linux distributions, configuring networks, and even learning micro-soldering for smartphone repairs. My journey is fueled by a desire to understand how things work and a commitment to growth, both technically and personally.
This website is designed to give you a closer look at who I am, showcase my projects, and reveal the passion that drives my journey in technology.
Contact Me
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The names and the logos displayed on this website are used to represent the technologies I have experience with in my homelab.
Their use does not imply endorsement or affiliation.
Made with ā¤ļø and passion