This page covers how to abuse an old Mac Mini as a dedicated Docker host: a late 2014 Mac Mini (Mac Mini 7,1) that I’ve repurposed to run Arch Linux with Docker. While a Mac Mini might not be the typical choice for a containerized workload, it was the hardware I had on hand. Surprisingly, this little device has proven to be highly compatible and easy to set up with Linux and Docker.
Here’s a breakdown of the Mac Mini’s hardware, which, although modest, has worked well as a dedicated Docker host:
The Mac Mini runs Arch Linux, chosen for its lightweight nature and rolling-release model. Despite being an aging Mac, Arch runs smoothly, and Docker was straightforward to set up.
Docker is installed as the primary container runtime, currently hosting Immich, a self-hosted photo and video management solution. While the Mac Mini has limited resources, it handles this workload efficiently.
So, you’ve got an old Mac Mini sitting around, gathering dust, and you’re thinking, “Hey, why not turn this into a Docker host?” You’re in luck! With a few questionable choices and a sprinkle of creativity, you, too, can abuse a Mac Mini for your self-hosting needs. Here’s how:
First things first, convince yourself (and the Mac Mini) that this was always the plan. Sure, it’s a late 2014 model with a dual-core i7 that was originally meant to browse the web and look pretty on a desk, but today? It’s being promoted to the ranks of serious server hardware. Start strong with Arch Linux—because nothing says “server-grade” like a glorified media streamer running bleeding-edge software.
With 8GB of RAM, you’ll be operating in lean, mean fashion. There’s no luxury here, just pure endurance as you ask the Mac Mini to juggle Docker containers like it’s prepping for Cirque du Soleil. Remember, RAM is overrated (until you actually run out), so we’re aiming for “just enough” and nothing more.
Forget fancy RAID setups or enterprise storage solutions—who needs ‘em? Instead, grab two external 2TB USB HDDs and plug them in, like you’re setting up for the ultimate floppy disk archive. Bonus points if the USB cables dangle awkwardly behind the desk. Then throw ZFS on those babies, and voilà, you’ve got a “professional” mirrored array held together by sheer willpower and some ancient USB ports.
Here’s where it gets spicy: running Linux on a Mac Mini. Surprisingly, the little guy won’t put up much of a fight. Sure, you’ll miss macOS’s slick animations, but who needs those when you have the raw charm of terminal commands and Docker logs? Watch as the Mac Mini effortlessly (and maybe a little reluctantly) embraces its Linux-powered destiny.
Now step back and admire the absurdity: a sleek, tiny device designed for browsing, now transformed into your compact, Docker-powered workhorse. Your friends may scoff, but you and the Mac Mini know the truth—it might not be built for this, but it’s going to try anyway.
In the end, you’ve successfully “abused” a Mac Mini to become a container host. Sure, it’s a little unorthodox, but you’ve turned an unexpected relic into a loyal Docker machine. And isn’t that what self-hosting is all about?
Jokes aside, this Mac Mini has proven to be a surprisingly effective and efficient Docker host, even if it’s an unconventional choice. Its compatibility with Linux and Docker has been impressive, and while it may not be a powerhouse, it reliably serves its purpose within my self-hosting environment. This setup has shown that even modest hardware can play a valuable role in a robust self-hosted infrastructure.
Feel free to explore other pages in this wiki to learn more about the rest of my self-hosting setup!