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Pi-hole vs AdGuard Home: Best Ad Blocker for Home Networks

If you’re serious about controlling ads across your entire home network, you’ve probably heard of Pi-hole and AdGuard Home. Both are powerful DNS-level ad blockers that work at the network layer, meaning they block ads for every device on your network—no per-device installation needed.

But which one should you actually deploy on your home server? Let’s break down the key differences, strengths, and weaknesses so you can make an informed decision.

What Are DNS-Level Ad Blockers?

Before we compare, it’s worth understanding what makes these tools special. Unlike browser extensions or mobile apps, DNS-level ad blockers intercept DNS queries before they reach your devices. When a request matches a blocklist, it’s redirected or blocked entirely.

This approach offers several advantages:

• Works across all devices (phones, tablets, smart TVs, IoT devices)
• No per-device setup or maintenance
• Blocks ads even in apps, not just web browsers
• Reduces bandwidth consumption network-wide

Both Pi-hole and AdGuard Home operate this way, but their implementations differ significantly.

Pi-hole: The Lightweight Favorite

What Makes Pi-hole Special

Pi-hole has been the gold standard for home network ad blocking since 2014. It’s lightweight, open-source, and requires minimal resources—which is why it became famous running on Raspberry Pi devices.

The setup process is straightforward. A simple curl command downloads and executes the installer, and within minutes you’ll have a functional ad blocker running on your network. The web interface is clean and intuitive, with clear statistics showing how many queries were blocked.

Pi-hole Strengths

• Resource-efficient: Runs smoothly on older hardware or low-power devices
• Established community: Years of documentation, guides, and community support
• Highly customizable: Advanced users can dive deep into regex filtering and custom blocklists
• Fast performance: Minimal overhead on DNS queries
• Open-source: Full source code transparency

Pi-hole Limitations

Pi-hole isn’t perfect. The interface, while functional, feels dated. The DHCP server implementation is basic, and some features require command-line tinkering. Whitelist/blacklist management becomes tedious with many rules, and the learning curve steepens quickly for advanced configurations.

AdGuard Home: The Feature-Rich Alternative

What Makes AdGuard Home Different

AdGuard Home is the newer competitor, released by the company behind the popular AdGuard browser extension. It’s also free and open-source, but takes a different philosophy: feature richness over simplicity.

Installation is similarly easy, though it requires more system resources than Pi-hole. The web interface is noticeably more polished, with modern design and smoother interactions.

AdGuard Home Strengths

• Modern interface: Beautiful dashboard with responsive design
• Advanced filtering: Regular expressions, client-based rules, and custom filters
• Parental controls: Built-in age-appropriate filtering for different devices
• Query logging: Detailed, searchable query history with filtering options
• DHCP server: More robust DHCP implementation with better management
• Safe browsing: Real-time malware and phishing protection
• Faster updates: More frequent releases and improvements

AdGuard Home Limitations

The trade-off is complexity and resource consumption. AdGuard Home uses more RAM and CPU than Pi-hole, which matters on constrained hardware. Some features feel over-engineered for home use. There’s also less community content compared to Pi-hole’s mature ecosystem.

Pi-hole vs AdGuard Home: Side-by-Side Comparison

Here’s a quick reference table for key factors:

• Resource Usage: Pi-hole wins (lighter weight)
• User Interface: AdGuard Home wins (more modern)
• Setup Difficulty: Tie (both straightforward)
• Filtering Power: AdGuard Home slight edge (more features)
• Community Support: Pi-hole wins (larger, more established)
• Active Development: AdGuard Home wins (faster update cycle)
• DHCP Server: AdGuard Home wins (more features)
• Learning Curve: Pi-hole wins (simpler advanced options)

Practical Considerations for Your Home Network

Choose Pi-hole If:

• You’re running on a Raspberry Pi or other low-power hardware
• You prefer simplicity and stability over cutting-edge features
• You want extensive community documentation and third-party tools
• You’re on a budget and want the lightest possible resource footprint

Choose AdGuard Home If:

• You have spare server resources and appreciate modern interfaces
• You want built-in parental controls and safe browsing features
• You prefer active development and frequent feature updates
• You need robust DHCP management alongside DNS blocking
• You’re running on a more powerful home server alongside other services

Pro Tip:

Don’t feel locked in. Both tools can be installed on a home server running Docker containers, making it easy to test drive both and see which workflow suits you better. Many home server enthusiasts even run both simultaneously with load balancing for redundancy.

The Verdict

There’s no objective winner here—it depends on your hardware, preferences, and technical comfort level. Pi-hole remains the best choice for Raspberry Pi deployments and minimalist setups. AdGuard Home shines when you have more powerful hardware and want a modern, feature-rich experience.

Both solve the core problem elegantly: network-wide ad blocking without per-device configuration. Whichever you choose, you’ll dramatically improve your browsing experience and reduce tracking across your entire network. Start with one, and you can always migrate later—both have excellent documentation for moving between them.

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Shop on Amazon: Raspberry Pi 4 Board • Gigabit Network Switch • Cat6 Ethernet Cable

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How to Set Up Jellyfin on a Raspberry Pi: Complete 2026 Guide

Running your own media server at home is one of the most rewarding self-hosted projects you can tackle. Jellyfin, the free and open-source media system, pairs perfectly with a Raspberry Pi to create a low-power, always-on entertainment hub. Whether you’re looking to stream movies, music, or TV shows across your home network, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to get Jellyfin running smoothly on your Pi.

Why Jellyfin on Raspberry Pi?

Before diving into the setup, let’s talk about why this combination makes so much sense. Jellyfin is completely free, has no ads, and doesn’t require any phone home to external servers. A Raspberry Pi consumes minimal power—perfect for a device that runs 24/7. Together, they give you a private, affordable media server that respects your privacy and doesn’t break the bank on electricity bills.

The newer Raspberry Pi 4 and Raspberry Pi 5 models handle transcoding and multiple simultaneous streams without breaking a sweat, making them excellent choices for this setup.

What You’ll Need to Get Started

Hardware Requirements

• Raspberry Pi 4 (4GB or 8GB RAM recommended) or Raspberry Pi 5
• A quality power supply rated for your Pi model
• MicroSD card (64GB or larger for OS and applications)
• External hard drive or NAS storage for your media library
• Ethernet cable (optional but recommended for stability)
• Heatsink or cooling case to prevent thermal throttling

Software Requirements

You’ll need Raspberry Pi OS (formerly Raspbian) installed on your microSD card. If you haven’t done this yet, download the Raspberry Pi Imager from the official Raspberry Pi website and create a bootable card.

Step-by-Step Installation Guide

Step 1: Update Your System

First, connect to your Raspberry Pi via SSH or use the terminal directly. Update all system packages to ensure compatibility:

sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y

This process may take a few minutes, so grab a cup of coffee while it runs.

Step 2: Install Docker (Recommended Method)

The easiest way to install Jellyfin is through Docker, which keeps everything contained and easy to manage. Install Docker and Docker Compose:

curl -sSL https://get.docker.com | sh

Add your user to the Docker group to avoid needing sudo:

sudo usermod -aG docker $USER

Step 3: Create Docker Compose Configuration

Create a directory for your Jellyfin configuration and a docker-compose.yml file. This approach is cleaner than manual installation and makes updates effortless. Your compose file should include volume mounts for your media storage, configuration directory, and cache directory.

Make sure to map the correct ports (8096 is the default HTTP port) and set environment variables for timezone and UID/GID to avoid permission issues.

Step 4: Mount Your Media Storage

Connect your external hard drive or NAS to your Raspberry Pi. You can use a reliable external drive like a Western Digital Elements for straightforward local storage, or connect to a network share for more flexibility. Mount it to a consistent location:

sudo mkdir -p /mnt/media
sudo mount /dev/sda1 /mnt/media

To make this permanent, add the mount to your /etc/fstab file.

Step 5: Start the Jellyfin Container

Navigate to your docker-compose directory and launch Jellyfin:

docker-compose up -d

The container will download and start. This takes a few minutes on first run.

Configuring Jellyfin

Initial Setup Wizard

Open your web browser and visit http://your-pi-ip:8096. You’ll be greeted with a welcome wizard that guides you through language selection, creating an admin account, and adding media libraries.

Adding Your Media Libraries

Point Jellyfin to your mounted media storage. You can organize libraries by content type: Movies, TV Shows, Music, and Photos. Make sure your media files follow standard naming conventions for automatic metadata matching.

Enabling Remote Access (Optional)

If you want to access Jellyfin outside your home network, enable remote access in the server settings. You can use Jellyfin’s built-in relay service or set up a reverse proxy with your own domain.

Performance Optimization Tips

Enable hardware-accelerated transcoding if your Pi supports it. Use a quality Samsung Evo microSD card for your OS installation—it makes a noticeable difference in responsiveness. Keep your Raspberry Pi cool with adequate ventilation or a cooling case to prevent performance throttling during summer months.

Limit concurrent streams based on your network and hardware capabilities. Start with two simultaneous streams and increase if performance permits.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If Jellyfin won’t start, check Docker logs with docker logs jellyfin. Permission denied errors typically mean your user isn’t properly added to the Docker group. Transcoding failures suggest hardware limitations—consider reducing video quality or disabling transcoding for local playback.

Conclusion

Setting up Jellyfin on a Raspberry Pi gives you complete control over your media library with zero subscription fees or privacy concerns. The initial setup takes less than an hour, and you’ll enjoy years of reliable streaming from your personal server. Whether you’re streaming to your living room TV, a phone while traveling, or sharing with family, Jellyfin on Raspberry Pi is a self-hosted solution that truly delivers. Start small, enjoy the process, and expand your media library at your own pace.

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Shop on Amazon: Raspberry Pi 5 • MicroSD Card 64GB High Speed • Raspberry Pi Case with Fan

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Best Free Home Server OS in 2026: TrueNAS vs Unraid vs Proxmox

If you’re building a home server in 2026, choosing the right operating system is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. The good news? Some of the best options won’t cost you a dime. Whether you’re looking to consolidate your storage, run virtual machines, or create a flexible self-hosted environment, TrueNAS, Unraid, and Proxmox each bring something unique to the table.

Let’s dive into these three powerhouses and help you figure out which one deserves a spot on your hardware.

TrueNAS: The Storage-First Approach

What Makes TrueNAS Special

TrueNAS has become the go-to choice for anyone serious about home storage. Built on the proven foundation of FreeBSD (TrueNAS CORE) and Linux (TrueNAS SCALE), it’s specifically designed to be a bulletproof NAS operating system with data protection baked in.

The standout feature? ZFS filesystem. This gives you snapshots, data deduplication, and built-in RAID functionality that actually protects your files. If you’ve ever lost data to a drive failure, you’ll appreciate what ZFS brings to the table.

Best For

• Building a reliable NAS for backups and media storage
• Anyone who prioritizes data integrity over flexibility
• Home setups with 4+ hard drives
• Users who need straightforward RAID management

Practical Considerations

TrueNAS CORE runs on FreeBSD, which limits some Linux-specific applications. TrueNAS SCALE (the newer Linux-based version) offers better flexibility with Docker and Linux containers, making it more versatile for those wanting to run additional services alongside storage.

Fair warning: the learning curve for ZFS concepts (pools, datasets, vdevs) isn’t steep, but it’s not instant either. However, once you understand it, you’ll wonder how you ever managed storage differently.

Unraid: The Flexibility Champion

Understanding Unraid’s Unique Position

Here’s where things get interesting. Unraid technically isn’t entirely free—it operates on a freemium model with a free tier that’s surprisingly capable. But if we’re talking about free-to-use options, Unraid deserves mention because what you get for free is genuinely functional.

Unraid’s biggest strength is flexibility. It combines storage, virtual machines, Docker containers, and traditional computing into one ecosystem. Your array doesn’t require matching drives, and you can add storage on the fly without complex pool restructuring.

Best For

• Mixed workloads (VMs, containers, storage, apps)
• Building a multimedia powerhouse
• Users who want simplicity without sacrificing features
• Homelab enthusiasts who evolve their setup over time

Key Advantages and Trade-offs

Unraid’s free tier gives you plenty of functionality, though paid tiers unlock things like more VM slots and additional features. The web interface is incredibly polished, and the community is massive—you’ll find solutions to almost any problem within minutes.

The trade-off? Unraid’s parity protection isn’t as mathematically elegant as ZFS, and it requires more planning around drive sizing. But for most home users, it works beautifully.

Proxmox: The Virtualization Powerhouse

What Proxmox Brings to the Table

If you’re thinking about running multiple operating systems, containerized workloads, and treating your server like a mini data center, Proxmox VE is the tool for the job. It’s enterprise-grade virtualization software that’s completely free and open-source.

Proxmox combines KVM-based virtual machines with LXC containers, giving you flexibility in how you deploy applications. The cluster management capabilities are robust, and the performance is excellent for the price (free).

Best For

• Homelab professionals and future sysadmins
• Running dozens of different services and operating systems
• Users comfortable with command-line interfaces
• Environments where you need serious resource efficiency

Real Talk About Proxmox

Proxmox has a steeper learning curve than the other options. You’ll need to understand virtual machine concepts, networking, and Linux administration. However, if you’re planning to develop sysadmin skills or learn infrastructure management, Proxmox is an invaluable investment of your time.

Storage management is flexible but requires more manual configuration. Many Proxmox users pair it with TrueNAS SCALE for dedicated storage, creating a powerful two-system setup.

Head-to-Head Comparison

Storage Performance: TrueNAS wins for pure NAS workloads. Proxmox excels when storage is secondary. Unraid balances both reasonably well.

Ease of Use: Unraid is most beginner-friendly. TrueNAS sits in the middle. Proxmox requires the most technical knowledge.

Flexibility: Proxmox offers the most flexibility for diverse workloads. Unraid is second. TrueNAS is most focused (but that’s intentional).

Community Support: All three have excellent communities. Unraid’s is arguably the most active for consumer use cases.

Making Your Decision

Here’s a practical framework: Choose TrueNAS if your primary goal is storing files reliably. Choose Unraid if you want to run multiple services and need flexibility. Choose Proxmox if you’re building a learning environment or need true virtualization at scale.

Many advanced users actually run multiple systems. A popular setup combines Proxmox for virtualization with TrueNAS SCALE as a dedicated storage VM, giving you the best of both worlds.

Conclusion

The best free home server OS in 2026 isn’t about finding the objectively “best”—it’s about matching the tool to your needs. TrueNAS excels at storage, Unraid masters versatility, and Proxmox dominates virtualization. All three are genuinely free and production-ready. Start by honestly assessing what your home server needs to do, then pick the platform that aligns with those goals. You might surprise yourself with what you can accomplish.

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Shop on Amazon: Mini PC Home Server • 1TB SSD for Server • 32GB DDR4 RAM Upgrade

Mini PCs have become the go-to hardware for home servers and homelabs in 2025. They are compact, quiet, energy-efficient, and surprisingly powerful. Whether you want to self-host services, run local AI models, or build a media server, there is a mini PC for your budget and use case.

Why a Mini PC Over a Raspberry Pi or NAS?

• Much more processing power than a Raspberry Pi
• More RAM and storage options
• Runs full x86 Linux without ARM compatibility headaches
• Often cheaper than a NAS with equivalent compute
• Quiet and efficient, typically 6-15W at idle

Best Mini PCs for Home Servers in 2025

Beelink EQ12 – Best Budget Pick

The Beelink EQ12 (~$170) packs an Intel N100 processor, 16GB RAM, and 500GB SSD into a compact, silent package. The N100 is remarkably capable for its price, handles Docker comfortably, and draws under 10W at idle. Perfect for running Nextcloud, Vaultwarden, Pi-hole, and several other services simultaneously.

Best for: First home server, light to moderate self-hosting, budget builds

Power draw: 6-15W

GMKtec NucBox M5 Plus – Best Mid-Range

The GMKtec NucBox M5 Plus (~$280) steps up to an AMD Ryzen 5 5600H with integrated graphics that support hardware video transcoding. Great for running Plex or Jellyfin alongside other services. 32GB RAM option available for running multiple Docker containers or lightweight VMs in Proxmox.

Best for: Media serving with transcoding, Proxmox VMs, heavier workloads

Power draw: 15-35W

Beelink SER6 Pro – Best AMD Option

The Beelink SER6 Pro (~$350) runs an AMD Ryzen 7 6800H with a powerful integrated GPU. AMD’s iGPU support in Linux is excellent for GPU-accelerated AI inference with Ollama, hardware video transcoding, and running compute-intensive services.

Best for: Local AI models, heavy transcoding, multiple VM environments

Power draw: 20-45W

Intel NUC 13 Pro – Most Reliable

The Intel NUC 13 Pro (~$400) is the enterprise-grade option. Intel NUCs have the best Linux compatibility and driver support of any mini PC. Thunderbolt 4 ports, excellent thermal management, and a proven reliability track record make it the choice for always-on critical services.

Best for: Production home servers where reliability matters most

Power draw: 15-28W idle

Apple Mac Mini M4 – Best for Local AI

The Apple Mac Mini M4 (~$600 with 16GB RAM) is in a class of its own for running local AI models. Apple Silicon’s unified memory architecture lets the GPU and CPU share the full 16GB of RAM, enabling smooth 13B parameter model inference. Also excellent for running macOS-native applications alongside home server duties. OpenClaw runs natively on macOS.

Best for: Local AI models with Ollama, OpenClaw home automation, macOS-specific apps

Power draw: 10-20W

Operating System Options

• Ubuntu Server: Best for Docker-based self-hosting, widest compatibility
• Proxmox VE: If you want to run VMs and containers with a management web UI
• TrueNAS Scale: If storage is your primary use case
• macOS: Mac Mini only, excellent for OpenClaw and AI workloads

Storage Recommendations

Most mini PCs come with an M.2 NVMe SSD. For additional storage:

• Samsung 870 EVO 2TB SATA SSD via USB enclosure for fast external storage
• WD 8TB external drive for bulk media or backup storage

Networking

All the mini PCs above include 2.5G ethernet, which is important for fast local file transfers. Pair with a TP-Link 2.5G switch if you want full 2.5G speeds throughout your home network.

Our Recommendation by Use Case

• First home server, budget: Beelink EQ12 (~$170)
• Media server with transcoding: GMKtec NucBox M5 Plus (~$280)
• Local AI and OpenClaw: Mac Mini M4 (~$600)
• Maximum reliability: Intel NUC 13 Pro (~$400)
• Proxmox / heavy workloads: Beelink SER6 Pro (~$350)

Bottom Line

Mini PCs represent the best value in home server hardware in 2025. The Beelink EQ12 is the starting point for anyone new to self-hosting, while the Mac Mini M4 is unbeatable for local AI workloads. Whatever your budget, there is an excellent option in this category.

A password manager is one of the most important security tools you can use. Running your own self-hosted password manager means your encrypted vault never touches a third-party server. Vaultwarden and Bitwarden are the two main options for self-hosting. Here is everything you need to know.

Why Self-Host Your Password Manager?

• Your password vault stays on your hardware, not someone else’s server
• No subscription fees (Bitwarden charges $10-40 per year for premium features)
• Complete control over your data and backups
• Works even if the service company shuts down

Bitwarden (Official Self-Host)

Bitwarden is the leading open-source password manager with a full self-hosted option. The official server requires Docker and runs multiple containers (API, web, notifications, database). It is the complete, officially supported version of Bitwarden with all features including enterprise options.

Requirements: ~2GB RAM minimum, Docker, a decent server. More resource-intensive than Vaultwarden.

Pros: Official support, all features, enterprise capabilities, regular updates

Cons: Heavy resource usage, complex setup with many containers

Vaultwarden (Community Alternative)

Vaultwarden is a community-built, Bitwarden-compatible server written in Rust. It is dramatically lighter (runs happily on a Raspberry Pi with 512MB RAM), uses a single Docker container, and is compatible with all official Bitwarden client apps (browser extensions, desktop apps, mobile apps).

Requirements: 512MB RAM, single Docker container. Runs on anything.

Pros: Extremely lightweight, simple setup, free all premium features, compatible with Bitwarden apps

Cons: Not officially supported by Bitwarden, community maintained

Feature Comparison

Vaultwarden unlocks all Bitwarden premium features for free, including:

• TOTP authenticator codes (two-factor authentication)
• Emergency access
• Organization and sharing features
• Encrypted attachments
• Admin panel for user management

Setting Up Vaultwarden (Recommended)

Hardware: Any always-on Linux machine works. A Raspberry Pi 5 is more than sufficient, as is a mini PC if you are running other services too.

Docker Compose Install

version: "3"
services:
  vaultwarden:
    image: vaultwarden/server:latest
    container_name: vaultwarden
    restart: unless-stopped
    ports:
      - "8080:80"
    volumes:
      - ./vw-data:/data
    environment:
      DOMAIN: "https://vault.yourdomain.com"
      SIGNUPS_ALLOWED: "false"
      ADMIN_TOKEN: "your-secure-admin-token"

Run docker compose up -d and visit port 8080 to complete setup. Create your account before disabling signups. Takes under 10 minutes.

Remote Access

Vaultwarden requires HTTPS for browser extensions to work properly. The easiest options:

• Cloudflare Tunnel: Free, puts your Vaultwarden behind Cloudflare with automatic HTTPS, no port forwarding needed
• Caddy reverse proxy: Automatic Let’s Encrypt SSL certificates if you have a domain and open port 443
• Tailscale: Access your Vaultwarden locally from anywhere without exposing it to the internet

Using the Bitwarden Apps

All official Bitwarden clients work with Vaultwarden. In the app settings, change the server URL to your Vaultwarden instance. Browser extensions, the Windows/Mac desktop app, and iOS/Android apps all work seamlessly.

Backups

Back up the vw-data directory regularly. This contains your encrypted vault database. You can script automatic backups to a NAS or encrypted cloud storage. Since the vault is end-to-end encrypted, even an unencrypted backup of the database file is safe.

Security Considerations

• Use a strong master password (the encryption key for your vault)
• Enable two-factor authentication for your Vaultwarden account
• Keep your Vaultwarden container updated regularly
• Consider keeping it on Tailscale rather than publicly exposed for maximum security
• Back up your vault regularly

Our Recommendation

Vaultwarden wins for home use in almost every scenario. It is lighter, simpler to set up, and unlocks all premium features for free. The community maintenance has been reliable for years. Use official Bitwarden only if you need enterprise features or official support for compliance reasons.

Bottom Line

Self-hosting your password manager with Vaultwarden is one of the highest-value homelab projects available. 10 minutes to set up, eliminates subscription fees, and keeps your most sensitive data under your control. Pair it with a YubiKey for hardware two-factor authentication and you have a more secure setup than most commercial password managers offer.

OpenClaw is positioning itself as the AI-native home automation platform for 2025. After spending time with it, here is an honest breakdown of what works, what needs improvement, and who should use it.

What Is OpenClaw?

OpenClaw is a home automation hub that puts AI at the center rather than bolting it on as an afterthought. It integrates with Claude (Anthropic’s AI model) to let you control your home with natural language, build complex automations by describing them in plain English, and have your home actually understand context and intent.

It runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux, meaning you can run it on a dedicated Mac Mini M4, a Raspberry Pi, or even a spare laptop.

Installation and Setup

Installation is straightforward. Download, run the installer, and follow the setup wizard. Most users are up and running in 20-30 minutes. The wizard handles device discovery, AI configuration, and mobile app pairing. No YAML files, no command line required unless you want it.

Compared to Home Assistant (which can take a weekend to configure properly), OpenClaw is dramatically easier to get started with.

AI Features

This is where OpenClaw genuinely shines. You can say or type things like:

• “Turn off all the lights except the kitchen when everyone leaves”
• “Make the bedroom feel cozy for a movie”
• “Set up a bedtime routine that starts at 10 PM on weekdays”

And it just works. The Claude integration understands context, remembers your preferences, and can chain multiple actions together without you defining each step. This is fundamentally different from rule-based automation.

The AI assistant also handles questions: “Did I leave the garage door open?” or “What’s the temperature in each room?” with natural answers rather than just raw data.

Device Compatibility

OpenClaw supports all major smart home ecosystems:

• Google Home and Google Assistant
• Amazon Alexa
• Apple HomeKit
• MQTT (for DIY and advanced devices)
• Philips Hue, LIFX, Nanoleaf
• SmartThings
• Z-Wave and Zigbee via bridge devices

If you have very obscure or older devices, Home Assistant with its 3,000+ integrations may still be the better fit. OpenClaw’s compatibility list is growing rapidly but is not yet as comprehensive.

Privacy

OpenClaw is privacy-conscious by design. All home data stays local. The Claude AI connection (for natural language processing) sends only the text of your commands to Anthropic’s API, not any data about your home, devices, or schedules. If full offline operation is required, OpenClaw can connect to a local Ollama instance instead, keeping everything on your hardware.

Mobile App

The iOS and Android companion apps are polished and functional. Remote access works reliably via the OpenClaw cloud relay. You can control devices, view status, receive alerts, and interact with the AI assistant from anywhere. The app design is clean and faster to navigate than most home automation interfaces.

Automations

Beyond AI-driven commands, OpenClaw supports traditional rule-based automations and schedules. The interface for building these is more accessible than Home Assistant’s YAML approach. You can describe an automation in plain English and the AI will build it for you, then show you the rules it created so you can review or adjust them.

What Needs Improvement

• Device compatibility breadth still trails Home Assistant
• The plugin ecosystem is newer and less extensive
• Advanced users who love deep configuration may find it less customizable than HA
• Local AI mode (Ollama) requires more technical setup

Who Should Use OpenClaw?

OpenClaw is ideal for:

• People new to home automation who want something that works quickly
• Anyone prioritizing AI-powered voice and natural language control
• Tech-savvy users who want powerful automation without spending days on configuration
• Privacy-conscious users who want local control with AI capabilities

Stick with Home Assistant if:

• You have many obscure or legacy smart home devices
• You need 100% offline operation with no cloud dependency whatsoever
• You enjoy deep configuration and the tinkering aspect of HA

Verdict

OpenClaw delivers on its promise of AI-native home automation. The natural language control works better than any competing platform, setup is genuinely easy, and the privacy stance is solid. It is not the right fit for every scenario, but for most people upgrading their home automation in 2025, OpenClaw is the most compelling option available.

Rating: 4.5/5

A Network Attached Storage device gives you a centralized place to store files, run backups, host media, and self-host services. In 2025, the options range from elegant plug-and-play units to powerful DIY builds. Here is how to choose the right one.

Why Get a NAS?

• Centralize all your files in one place accessible by every device
• Replace Dropbox and Google Drive with your own private storage
• Automatic backup for all PCs and Macs on your network
• Run a Plex or Jellyfin media server
• Docker support for self-hosting any service
• RAID protection so a single drive failure does not lose your data

Best NAS Devices in 2025

Synology DS223 – Best 2-Bay for Most People

The Synology DS223 (~$300 without drives) is the gold standard for home NAS. DSM (DiskStation Manager) is the best NAS operating system available, with a polished interface, excellent mobile apps, and an extensive package ecosystem. The DS223 supports 2 drives, Docker, and Synology’s own cloud sync and backup tools.

Pros: Best software, easiest setup, reliable, great mobile apps

Cons: More expensive than alternatives, limited CPU for heavy Docker use

Synology DS923+ – Best 4-Bay for Power Users

The Synology DS923+ (~$600 without drives) steps up to 4 drive bays and a more powerful AMD Ryzen processor. Handles multiple Docker containers, Plex transcoding, and heavier workloads easily. The right choice if you plan to self-host seriously.

QNAP TS-233 – Best Budget Option

The QNAP TS-233 (~$200 without drives) offers solid performance at a lower price. QTS (QNAP’s OS) is capable if less polished than DSM. Good for users who want NAS functionality without the Synology premium.

Terramaster F2-423 – Best Value Performance

The Terramaster F2-423 (~$250 without drives) packs an Intel N5105 processor that comfortably handles Plex hardware transcoding, multiple Docker containers, and general NAS duties. Great value if Synology’s premium is too much.

DIY TrueNAS Build – Best for Maximum Control

Building your own TrueNAS machine gives you complete control over hardware and ZFS storage features. Start with a used Dell/HP server from eBay or a new mini ITX build. TrueNAS Scale runs Linux containers and VMs natively. Best for those who want enterprise-grade ZFS storage management. Requires more setup and Linux knowledge.

Drives to Buy

Always use NAS-rated drives in a NAS. Consumer drives are not rated for 24/7 operation. Top picks:

• WD Red Plus 4TB – Reliable, widely used, good warranty
• Seagate IronWolf 4TB – Slightly faster, competitive pricing

For a 2-bay NAS, start with 2x 4TB in RAID 1 (mirror) for 4TB usable with full redundancy. One drive can fail without data loss.

RAID Levels Explained

• RAID 1 (Mirror): 2 drives, one copy each. If one fails, your data is safe. Half your total capacity is usable.
• RAID 5: 3+ drives, one drive worth of parity. Lose one drive without data loss. Best capacity efficiency with redundancy.
• No RAID: More storage, no protection. Risky for important data.

What to Run on Your NAS

Beyond file storage, a Synology or QNAP can run:

• Nextcloud: Self-hosted Google Drive replacement
• Plex or Jellyfin: Media server for all your movies and shows
• Vaultwarden: Self-hosted password manager
• Pi-hole: Network-wide ad blocking
• OpenClaw: AI home automation hub

Our Pick for Most People

The Synology DS223 with 2x WD Red Plus 4TB drives. Total cost around $450, gives you 4TB of redundant storage, the best NAS software available, and room to self-host Nextcloud and a handful of Docker services. Reliable enough to run 24/7 for years.

A home VPN server lets you securely access your home network from anywhere in the world, encrypt your traffic on public WiFi, and bypass geographic restrictions on your home services. WireGuard is the modern, fast, and secure choice. Here is how to set one up.

Why Run Your Own VPN Instead of a Commercial VPN?

• Your traffic routes through your own home IP, not a shared VPN server
• Access all your home services (NAS, Nextcloud, Pi-hole) remotely
• No monthly subscription fees
• You control the logs, which means there are none
• Better performance than commercial VPNs (no overcrowded servers)

What You Need

• A home server running Linux (Raspberry Pi, mini PC, or any Linux machine)
• A router that supports port forwarding
• A static IP or Dynamic DNS service (free options: DuckDNS, No-IP)

Hardware Options

Any always-on Linux machine works. The Raspberry Pi 5 is perfect for a dedicated VPN server at just 5W power draw. A Beelink mini PC gives you more headroom for running additional services alongside the VPN.

Installing WireGuard

On Ubuntu or Debian:

sudo apt update
sudo apt install wireguard -y

Easy Setup with PiVPN

The easiest way to install WireGuard is with PiVPN, a script that handles everything:

curl -L https://install.pivpn.io | bash

The installer walks you through choosing WireGuard, setting your port (default 51820), and configuring Dynamic DNS. Takes about 10 minutes with zero manual config file editing.

Adding Clients

Once installed, add a client device with:

pivpn add

This generates a QR code you scan with the WireGuard app on your phone, or a config file for your laptop. Connect your iPhone or Android with the free WireGuard app from the App Store or Play Store.

Router Configuration

Forward UDP port 51820 on your router to your server’s local IP. Most routers have a Port Forwarding section under Advanced settings. Set up a DHCP reservation for your server so its local IP never changes.

Dynamic DNS Setup

If your ISP gives you a dynamic IP (most residential connections), use DuckDNS (free) to map a domain name to your home IP. The DuckDNS update script runs on your server and updates the DNS record whenever your IP changes.

Connecting from Anywhere

With WireGuard installed on your phone, one tap activates the VPN. All your traffic routes through your home connection. You can access your home NAS, Nextcloud, Pi-hole, and any other local services as if you were home.

Split Tunneling

WireGuard supports split tunneling, letting you route only specific traffic through your home VPN while other traffic goes directly to the internet. Useful for accessing home services without slowing down general browsing.

Integration with OpenClaw

Running OpenClaw at home? Connect via your WireGuard VPN when away and access your full AI home assistant remotely, securely, with no cloud exposure required.

Performance

WireGuard is significantly faster than OpenVPN. On a Raspberry Pi 5, expect 100-300 Mbps throughput, limited mainly by your home internet upload speed. For most users this is more than adequate for secure remote access.

Bottom Line

A home WireGuard VPN server takes about 30 minutes to set up with PiVPN and gives you a permanent, private, free VPN server. No subscriptions, no third-party servers, complete control over your traffic.

Paying $10-20 per month for cloud storage when your files are sitting on someone else’s server makes less and less sense in 2025. Running your own cloud storage at home is straightforward, free after hardware costs, and gives you complete privacy. Nextcloud is the leading self-hosted alternative to Google Drive, and this guide will get you running.

Why Self-Host Your Cloud Storage?

• Privacy: Your files never touch Google, Apple, or Microsoft servers
• Cost: Free after hardware, no monthly subscriptions
• Storage: Add as much as you want by adding hard drives
• Features: Calendar, contacts, notes, video calls, office suite all included
• Control: Your data, your rules, your retention policy

What Is Nextcloud?

Nextcloud is an open-source file hosting platform that runs on your own hardware. It has desktop sync clients for Windows, Mac, and Linux, plus mobile apps for iOS and Android. Beyond files, it includes a calendar (replaces Google Calendar), contacts (replaces Google Contacts), Nextcloud Talk for video calls, and Nextcloud Office for collaborative document editing.

Hardware Options

Option 1: Raspberry Pi 5 (Budget, $100-150)

The Raspberry Pi 5 8GB is sufficient for personal use with 1-3 users. Connect an external USB SSD or hard drive for storage. Performance is adequate for syncing documents and photos, though large file transfers will be slower than dedicated hardware.

Option 2: Mini PC (Best value, $150-250)

A mini PC like the Beelink EQ12 with Intel N100 and 16GB RAM gives you much better performance than a Pi. Pair it with an external 4TB external drive for a capable Nextcloud server that uses under 10W at idle.

Option 3: NAS (Best storage, $300+)

A Synology NAS running Nextcloud in Docker gives you the best combination of storage capacity and reliability. Easy to expand storage, RAID support for redundancy, and designed to run 24/7 quietly.

Installing Nextcloud with Docker

Docker makes Nextcloud installation simple. Here is the quick version:

Step 1: Install Docker

curl -fsSL https://get.docker.com | sh
sudo usermod -aG docker $USER

Step 2: Create a docker-compose.yml file

version: '3'
services:
  nextcloud:
    image: nextcloud:latest
    ports:
      - "8080:80"
    volumes:
      - nextcloud_data:/var/www/html
      - /mnt/storage:/var/www/html/data
    environment:
      - MYSQL_HOST=db
      - MYSQL_PASSWORD=yourpassword
      - MYSQL_DATABASE=nextcloud
      - MYSQL_USER=nextcloud
    depends_on:
      - db
  db:
    image: mariadb:latest
    environment:
      - MYSQL_ROOT_PASSWORD=rootpassword
      - MYSQL_DATABASE=nextcloud
      - MYSQL_USER=nextcloud
      - MYSQL_PASSWORD=yourpassword
    volumes:
      - db_data:/var/lib/mysql
volumes:
  nextcloud_data:
  db_data:

Step 3: Start It Up

docker-compose up -d

Visit http://your-server-ip:8080 and complete setup in the web browser. Takes about 5 minutes total.

Remote Access Options

• Tailscale (easiest): Install on your server and phone to access Nextcloud over a secure tunnel from anywhere with no port forwarding needed
• Cloudflare Tunnel: Expose Nextcloud publicly via Cloudflare with no port forwarding required. Free.
• Port forwarding plus Let’s Encrypt: Traditional approach requiring a domain name and router port forwarding

Key Nextcloud Apps to Install

• Nextcloud Photos: Google Photos-style album organization
• Calendar: CalDAV sync with iPhone and Android
• Contacts: CardDAV sync with all your devices
• Nextcloud Office: Collaborative document editing powered by LibreOffice Online
• Talk: Video calls and messaging
• Notes: Simple note-taking with sync

Mobile Setup

Install the Nextcloud app on your phone (iOS or Android), point it at your server URL, and enable auto-upload for photos. All your photos will sync to your home server instead of iCloud or Google Photos. Combined with a NAS or RAID setup, this is genuinely as reliable as commercial cloud storage.

Performance Tips

• Use Redis for caching (add to docker-compose) to dramatically speed up the interface
• Enable PHP opcache in your Nextcloud config
• Run a cron job for background maintenance tasks
• Use an SSD for the Nextcloud application data, HDD for bulk file storage

Bottom Line

Nextcloud on a mini PC or NAS is a genuine Google Drive and Dropbox replacement. The initial setup takes an afternoon, but after that it is set-and-forget. You will never pay for cloud storage again, and your files stay completely private. Combined with OpenClaw running on the same hardware, you can have a fully private, AI-assisted smart home for under $300.

Your router is the gateway to everything on your home network, and most ISP-provided routers are privacy nightmares. Upgrading to a privacy-focused router gives you DNS filtering, VPN support, ad-blocking, and visibility into what your devices are actually doing. Here are the best options in 2025.

Why Your Default Router Is Not Good Enough

• ISP routers often phone home with usage data
• No DNS over HTTPS support (your DNS queries are visible)
• No built-in VPN client
• Infrequent or no security updates
• No traffic monitoring or device blocking

Top Privacy Routers in 2025

1. GL.iNet Beryl AX (GL-MT3000) – Best Overall

The GL.iNet Beryl AX (~$90) is the privacy router for most people. It runs OpenWRT under the hood, supports WireGuard and OpenVPN as a client, has AdGuard Home built-in for network-wide ad blocking, and supports DNS over HTTPS natively. Setup takes about 20 minutes via a friendly web interface.

Pros: Easy setup, WireGuard VPN, AdGuard Home, travel-friendly size

Cons: Better as a secondary or travel router than a primary home router

2. Firewalla Gold Plus – Best Plug-and-Play

The Firewalla Gold (~$200-300) is a security appliance that pairs with your existing router. It adds network monitoring, ad-blocking, VPN server and client, parental controls, and intrusion detection without replacing your router. The companion app is excellent.

Pros: Excellent app, works with existing router, detailed network insights

Cons: Expensive, not a full router replacement

3. Asus RT-AX88U with Merlin Firmware – Best Performance

The Asus RT-AX88U (~$250) running Asuswrt-Merlin firmware combines excellent WiFi 6 performance with enhanced privacy features. Merlin adds proper DNS over HTTPS, custom scripts, and better VPN configuration than stock firmware.

Pros: Excellent performance, WiFi 6, strong Merlin firmware support

Cons: Pricey, Merlin has a learning curve

4. pfSense / OPNsense Box (DIY) – Most Powerful

Building a pfSense or OPNsense router on a mini PC with dual NICs gives you enterprise-grade firewall capabilities at home. Advanced traffic shaping, VLANs, Snort and Suricata intrusion detection, and complete control. Steep learning curve but extremely powerful.

Pros: Maximum control, enterprise features, completely customizable

Cons: Significant learning curve, requires compatible hardware

5. GL.iNet Flint 2 (GL-MT6000) – Best Home Router from GL.iNet

The GL.iNet Flint 2 (~$120) is GL.iNet’s full home router with WiFi 6, a 2.5G WAN port, OpenWRT, VPN, and AdGuard Home. Better suited as a primary home router than the Beryl AX while keeping all the privacy features.

Key Privacy Features to Look For

DNS over HTTPS

Encrypts your DNS queries so your ISP cannot see which domains you are visiting. Use Cloudflare (1.1.1.1) or NextDNS for a privacy-respecting resolver.

VPN Client Support

Router-level VPN encrypts all traffic from all devices without installing VPN apps on each one. WireGuard is much faster than OpenVPN.

Network Ad Blocking

AdGuard Home or Pi-hole at the router level blocks ads on every device including smart TVs and phones that cannot run traditional ad blockers.

VLAN Support

VLANs let you isolate IoT devices from your main network so your smart fridge cannot see your NAS or personal computers.

Recommended Setup for Most People

GL.iNet Flint 2 as your primary router plus NextDNS for DNS filtering. Under $150, takes an afternoon to configure, and you get network-wide ad blocking, encrypted DNS, and VPN capabilities. Add a Firewalla Gold if you want detailed traffic monitoring on top of that.

Bottom Line

A privacy router is one of the best investments you can make for your home network. The GL.iNet lineup offers the best balance of ease-of-use and capability for most people. Firewalla is ideal for those who want insights without replacing hardware. pfSense and OPNsense are for those who want to go deep on network control.