Turn your OLD PC into your NEW HOME SERVER

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through the process of transforming your old PC into a new home server. Whether you want to set up file sharing, run virtual machines, or manage Docker containers, this guide covers the essential steps to get you started, utilizing both Windows and TrueNAS.

Step 1: Gather Requirements

Before diving into the setup, ensure you have the following:

• An old PC with sufficient hardware specifications (CPU, RAM, Storage).
• A stable internet connection.
• A backup of any important data on the PC.

Step 2: Plan Your Software Setup

Determine what services you want your home server to provide. Common uses include:

• Network file sharing.
• Running virtual machines (VMs).
• Docker container management.
• Setting up a VPN.

Step 3: Set Up Network Share in Windows

To enable file sharing on your Windows PC:

1. Open the Control Panel.
2. Go to "Network and Sharing Center."
3. Click on "Change advanced sharing settings."
4. Turn on network discovery and file sharing.
5. Create a shared folder:
   • Right-click on the folder you want to share.
   • Select "Properties," then the "Sharing" tab.
   • Click "Share," choose users, and set permissions.

Step 4: Run Virtual Machines in Windows

You can use software like VirtualBox or Hyper-V to create virtual machines:

1. Install VirtualBox or enable Hyper-V.
2. Create a new VM:
   • Open the virtualization software.
   • Click "New" and follow the prompts to set the OS and resources.
3. Start the VM and install your desired operating system.

Step 5: Set Up Docker in Windows

Docker allows you to run applications in isolated environments:

1. Download and install Docker Desktop.
2. Start Docker and configure it as needed.
3. Pull a Docker image using the command:

   docker pull <image-name>
   

4. Run a container:

   docker run -d <image-name>
   

Step 6: Set Up a VPN Using Tailscale in Windows

To create a secure connection to your home server:

1. Download and install Tailscale.
2. Sign in with your account.
3. Follow the prompts to connect devices to your network.

Step 7: Consider Using Linux and TrueNAS

For a more robust server setup, consider installing TrueNAS:

1. Download the TrueNAS ISO and create a bootable USB.
2. Install TrueNAS on your old PC.
3. Set up storage pools and configure network shares:
   • Create datasets for file sharing.
   • Configure SMB or NFS sharing.

Step 8: Manage VMs in TrueNAS

TrueNAS allows you to run virtual machines as well:

1. Access the TrueNAS web interface.
2. Go to "Virtual Machines" and click "Add."
3. Follow the prompts to configure and launch your VM.

Step 9: Use Docker in TrueNAS

TrueNAS also supports Docker through the use of jails:

1. Go to the TrueNAS web interface.
2. Create a jail for Docker use.
3. Install Docker within the jail:

   pkg install docker
   

Step 10: Set Up Tailscale in TrueNAS

To enable a VPN connection in TrueNAS:

1. Access the jail where Docker is installed.
2. Install Tailscale:

   curl -fsSL https://tailscale.com/install.sh | sh
   

3. Start Tailscale and authenticate.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you can successfully turn your old PC into a functional home server. From file sharing and virtual machines to Docker and VPN setups, you now have a versatile platform for various projects. Consider exploring additional features and optimizations as you grow your server capabilities.