How to run your own Bluesky PDS Server

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through the process of setting up your own Bluesky Personal Data Server (PDS) on a Raspberry Pi. Running a PDS allows you to manage your own data and connect with the Bluesky social network while maintaining control over your personal information.

Step 1: Getting Started

1. Gather Required Materials:

   • Raspberry Pi (preferably Raspberry Pi 3 or later)
   • MicroSD card (16GB or larger)
   • Power supply for Raspberry Pi
   • Internet connection
   • Computer for initial setup

2. Install Raspberry Pi OS:

   • Download the Raspberry Pi Imager from the official Raspberry Pi website.
   • Use the Imager to write the Raspberry Pi OS onto the MicroSD card.
   • Insert the MicroSD card into your Raspberry Pi and power it on.

3. Access the Raspberry Pi:

   • Connect via SSH or use a monitor and keyboard to log in.
   • Update the system packages with the following commands:

     sudo apt update
     sudo apt upgrade
     

Step 2: Install Bluesky PDS

1. Clone the PDS Repository:

   • Open a terminal and run:

     git clone https://github.com/bluesky-social/pds.git
     cd pds
     

2. Install Dependencies:

   • Make sure you have the necessary dependencies installed:

     sudo apt install -y build-essential
     

3. Build and Install PDS:

   • Follow the installation instructions provided in the repository's README file.
   • After building, execute the server with the command:

     ./start-server
     

Step 3: Create Your Account

1. Access Your PDS:

   • Open a web browser and navigate to your Raspberry Pi's IP address.
   • Follow the prompts to create your account.

2. Setup User Profile:

   • Fill in the necessary details to finalize your user profile.

Step 4: Monitor Your PDS

1. Check What’s Running:

   • Use the command:

     ps aux | grep pds
     

   • This will show you the processes related to your PDS server.

2. Set Up Monitoring Tools:

   • Consider using Netdata for real-time monitoring:
     • Install Netdata following their official documentation.
     • Access it via your web browser to visualize metrics.

Step 5: Configure Dynamic DNS

1. Choose a Dynamic DNS Service:

   • Sign up for a Dynamic DNS service like Inadyn.
   • Configure it to keep your Raspberry Pi’s IP address updated with your domain name.

2. Install Inadyn:

   • Clone the Inadyn repository:

     git clone https://github.com/troglobit/inadyn.git
     cd inadyn
     

   • Follow the setup instructions to integrate Inadyn with your server.

Step 6: Set Up Uptime Monitoring

1. Create an Account on UptimeRobot:

   • Visit UptimeRobot and create an account.
   • Add your PDS URL to monitor its uptime.

2. Configure Alerts:

   • Set up notifications to alert you if your server goes down.

Conclusion

You’ve now successfully set up your own Bluesky Personal Data Server on a Raspberry Pi. You can monitor its performance, ensure its uptime, and manage your personal data effectively. As you explore further, consider customizing your setup or integrating additional features to enhance functionality. Happy hosting!