Running a home server has been one of the best decisions I've made for my workflow. My server is on 24/7 and handles a bunch of tasks — from running Docker containers for my projects to streaming movies through Plex. Here's a look at the build and how I use it.
The hardware
- Intel Core i5-12500 (12th gen, with integrated GPU)
- 32 GB DDR4 RAM
- Be Quiet CPU cooler
- No dedicated GPU
- Replaced PSU (original developed a high-pitched whine)
Why no GPU?
GPUs were too expensive when I built this machine in 2022, and I didn't have a strong need for one. Instead I went with the Intel i5-12500, which has a solid integrated GPU. For a headless home server this is more than enough.
Access and OS
The server runs Pop!_OS (a Linux distribution) and is connected to the router via Ethernet — much faster and more reliable than Wi-Fi. I access it day-to-day over SSH from my laptop, so there's no need for a monitor attached to it.
Use case 1: Docker
All my side projects run inside Docker containers on this machine. This keeps my main laptop clean and avoids the overheating and battery drain that comes from running containers there. Because the server is on Linux, Docker runs natively without any virtualisation overhead.
Use case 2: Plex media server
I got tired of juggling multiple streaming subscriptions and never having everything in one place. Plex solves this: it looks just like any streaming app, but streams locally from my server. I pointed it at a folder of video files on the server and it streams to my TV over Wi-Fi — works beautifully.
What's next?
Right now the server handles Docker and Plex, but I'm actively looking for more uses. Future plans include home automation (combining it with robotics projects) and hosting dashboards for various things around the house. I'll document everything on this channel — so if you're interested, like and subscribe and I'll see you in the next video!