This documentation is meant to showcase how I have set up my home server. I might go in depth in some parts of my showcase for some more complicated stuff (mainly so I can remember back) but mainly will show what I use for what situation.
Let's just start with my setup. I am currently rocking a PC build with a Ryzen 5 2600 CPU, GTX1060 6GB, 32GB of RAM DDR4, 1TB SSD, and 4TB HDD (mobo is some Aorus mini ITX).
Proxmox is a hypervisor that allows you to run multiple virtual machines on your server. I use it to run my server and other VMs (Truenas and Home Assistant).
Arch is a lightweight operating system that is very customizable and has a rolling release model. This means that you can always have the latest version of any software that one would ever need.
I have gone through multiple operating systems (Ubuntu, Debian, Fedora, etc.) and I have always found that I enjoy using Arch mainly for its customizability and being able to do whatever I want, including breaking it on my own. That said, why Arch as my main server? Tbh I don't have any reason other than I have been using it for a while and I know how to use it. (Debian would probably be a better choice but I don't like it as much)
Yes, I did somehow achieve GPU passthrough on my server. I have a 1060 in my arch and I mainly just use it for ollama and supporting voice assistant for Home Assistant. Planning on doing some other fun things with it but will have to research some more~
Truenas Scale is a NAS-focused operating system designed for managing storage and running services. I use it to host my Immich (not using my GPU for rendering does suck but it just takes time) and Jellyfin servers. My setup includes a 2TB HDD for primary storage, with an additional 2TB HDD serving as a backup.
Home Assistant is an open-source home automation platform that focuses on privacy and local control. I use it to manage my smart home devices and automate tasks. Using Tuya Local is a game changer for me since it makes everything just faster and Tuya devices are relatively cheaper.
Tailscale is a VPN service that allows you to securely connect to your devices from anywhere. This has been a godsend for me since my ISP does not allow port forwarding or rather I have to make a call to deal with them. Instead, I take the more casual route of using Tailscale and it has been working wonders for me.