Total newbie.. but fun process so far.
I’ve been working on putting together my first homelab and wanted to share my progress so far. It’s still a work in progress, but I’m pretty excited about how it’s coming together.
A little background: I’ve spent about 10 years working in the electrical/construction field, and lately I’ve been seriously interested in transitioning further into IT, networking, security systems, and eventually cybersecurity.
I wanted something hands-on where I could actually learn how networking equipment works instead of just watching videos or reading about it.
I’m currently living with family, so I didn’t want a massive rack taking up space. I decided to challenge myself to build everything around a compact 10-inch rack. I know space and equipment compatibility will be limited, but that’s part of what makes the project interesting.
Current Setup
Here’s what I’ve installed so far, from top to bottom:
Tec Mojo 10-inch rack: The foundation for the setup.
Rack-mounted HDMI monitor: Installed at the top. I haven’t powered it on yet, but the idea is to use it for local troubleshooting, system administration, and working directly with the equipment.
12-port CAT6 patch panel: Three ports are currently patched into the switch. I’m trying to keep everything organized and learn proper cable management from the beginning.
Brush cable management panel: Helps route cables while keeping the front relatively clean.
MokerLink managed 2.5GbE PoE switch: Eight 2.5GbE ports with a 10G SFP+ uplink. I specifically wanted a managed switch so I could experiment with VLANs, network segmentation, PoE devices, and more advanced networking concepts.
Ventilated rack shelf: Installed below the switch for additional hardware.
Blank panels: Filling unused rack space for a cleaner appearance. I’m also ordering another vented blank panel to finish the open section.
Nothing has been powered on yet. I’m still working through the physical assembly, equipment placement, and cable management before moving into configuration.
Hardware I’m Planning to Add
HP Mini PC
I’m waiting to get an older HP Mini PC that was previously used as a home computer. Rather than spending money on another machine, I want to repurpose hardware that’s already available to me.
Depending on its specifications, I’m considering installing Proxmox and using it to learn virtualization, Linux, Windows Server, Active Directory, and other server-related technologies.
Raspberry Pi 5
I also plan to add a Raspberry Pi 5 as a dedicated lightweight server.
Some potential uses include:
Pi-hole for network-wide DNS filtering
Network monitoring
Docker containers
Home automation
Linux administration practice
Small networking and scripting projects
M4 Mac Mini
I already have an M4 Mac Mini that serves as my everyday computer. It won’t be permanently installed in the rack, but I’ll use it for remote administration, SSH, development, and managing the lab.
What I Want to Learn
I’m not building this just to have a cool-looking rack with blinking lights. I want it to be an actual learning environment.
1. Networking
I want to understand VLANs, subnetting, DHCP, DNS, routing, firewall rules, managed switches, and network troubleshooting.
Eventually, I’d like to create multiple isolated networks for different purposes, such as trusted devices, IoT equipment, security cameras, and lab experiments.
2. PoE Cameras and Security Systems
Coming from an electrical background, this is one of the areas I’m most interested in.
I want to learn how to install and configure IP cameras, PoE switches, NVR systems, and network infrastructure.
Long term, I’d like to explore starting a small camera installation and networking business, combining my electrical experience with new IT skills.
3. Servers and Virtualization
Once I have the HP Mini PC, I want to experiment with virtual machines, operating systems, containers, and basic server administration.
I’d eventually like to build a small virtual enterprise network where I can practice skills relevant to help desk, systems administration, and networking jobs.
4. Cybersecurity
Once I understand the networking fundamentals, I want to experiment with firewall configurations, network monitoring, log analysis, vulnerability scanning, and security testing within my own isolated lab environment.
I’m especially interested in learning how to secure networks rather than just getting everything connected.
5. Automation and Development
I also have a few personal software projects I’m working on, and eventually I’d like to use the lab for development, testing, automation, and hosting small services.
Why I Chose a 10-Inch Rack
Honestly, space and budget were the biggest factors.
I could have gone with a larger rack, but I wanted something compact that I could realistically keep in my current living situation.
I also like the idea of figuring out how to make everything fit efficiently.
The limited space forces me to think about airflow, cable management, power distribution, equipment dimensions, and future expansion before purchasing anything.
I’m trying to avoid buying hardware just because it looks interesting. Every device should serve a purpose and teach me something.
What’s Next?
My immediate priorities are:
Finish installing the remaining vented panel.
Clean up the patch cables and cable routing.
Power on and test the rack monitor.
Power on and configure the MokerLink switch.
Establish a connection to my home network.
Get the HP Mini PC installed and running.
Add the Raspberry Pi 5.
Start working through structured networking and server projects.
I’m also considering how best to connect the rack to my existing Verizon Fios network, including whether MoCA might make sense depending on the available wiring.
Looking for Feedback
Since this is my first homelab, I’m sure there are things I could improve.
I’d appreciate feedback on the equipment layout, ventilation, cable management, and anything else you notice from the picture.
I’m especially curious whether anyone else is running a 10-inch rack with a mini PC, Raspberry Pi, and managed PoE switch.
Are there any beginner-friendly projects you’d recommend that would help build practical networking skills?
My overall goal is to use this setup to transition from electrical work into networking, IT, and potentially cybersecurity while also developing skills I could eventually turn into a business.
Still early in the process, but I’m enjoying the build and looking forward to actually getting everything running.
Any advice, criticism, or project suggestions are welcome!