LabStackAdvisor

Start here

Pick the home lab path that matches the job.

Start with the workload. The right first stack for media storage is different from the right first stack for Proxmox clustering or local AI experiments.

Media server

I want Plex, Jellyfin, or family media.

Start with a quiet mini PC for services and a NAS or DAS for storage.

Read the storage guide

Proxmox

I want to learn virtualization.

Start with a serviceable mini PC, 16-32 GB RAM, NVMe storage, and a separate backup target.

Read the mini PC guide

Storage

I need a place for data and backups.

Choose NAS, DAS, or an old desktop based on sharing needs, noise, recovery, and budget.

Read the NAS drive guide

Monitoring

I want fewer surprise outages.

Start with uptime, disk space, backup status, and UPS health before building complex dashboards.

Build a recovery baseline

Networking

I want faster NAS or VM transfers.

2.5GbE is often the useful middle step before buying 10GbE gear.

Read the switch guide

Local AI

I want AI tools without renting everything.

Start CPU-first unless you already know the model sizes and workflows you need to run locally.

Use the advisor

Backups

I want Proxmox backups that restore cleanly.

Use Proxmox Backup Server once VMs and LXCs matter enough to protect.

Read the PBS starter guide