This is my "production" server that does no longer undergo frequent changes.
This page covers the details of my primary Proxmox server, which is central to my self-hosting environment. Assembled from scavenged parts, this setup may not feature the latest hardware, but it’s reliable and suits my needs for hosting a variety of essential services.
My Proxmox server is built from a mix of components sourced from eBay and other places. Here’s the detailed breakdown:
CPU: Intel(R) Core(TM) i3-10100F
A capable processor that handles multiple containers and VMs effectively, making it suitable for my Proxmox needs.
RAM: 64GB
This large amount of memory supports running multiple services in containers and VMs without bottlenecks, providing plenty of headroom for my current setup.
GPU: NVIDIA GTX 960 (4GB)
The GTX 960 is used primarily for Jellyfin, where GPU passthrough and acceleration enhance media streaming performance. While not cutting-edge, it’s more than sufficient for my needs.
Host Bus Adapter (HBA): LSI HBA
This adapter helps with managing the ZFS storage arrays, ensuring efficient handling of my disks and reliable performance.
I use ZFS for managing my storage, taking advantage of its redundancy and data protection features. My storage setup is split across two arrays, each with a specific function:
ZFS Array 1:
ZFS Array 2:
The Proxmox server hosts a range of services across LXC containers and virtual machines, each dedicated to specific functions:
LXC Containers:
Virtual Machines:
I find that LXC containers are lightweight and efficient for most services, while VMs provide the necessary isolation and resources for more complex applications like Home Assistant and Jellyfin.
Data integrity and redundancy are core aspects of my setup. Using ZFS and Proxmox’s snapshot capabilities, I follow a structured backup plan to ensure data protection:
Snapshots: I create regular snapshots of my containers and VMs, allowing me to quickly restore them in case of errors or changes that don’t work out.
Proxmox Backup Server: My Mac Mini runs Proxmox Backup Server, dedicated to storing regular backups from this main Proxmox server. This setup ensures reliable, on-site redundancy.
Offsite Backup: For added protection, critical files and configurations are also backed up to my Hostbrr storage VPS, providing an extra layer of data security.
Running a diverse setup on a mix of hardware components is both rewarding and challenging. Here are some of the obstacles I’ve faced and my plans for the future:
This Proxmox server is an ongoing project, constantly evolving as I learn more and experiment with new setups. Feel free to explore my other pages for details on the services and additional servers that support my self-hosting ecosystem!