Self-hosted media server goodness (Changelog & Friends #44)
May 17, 2024
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Alex Kretzschmar shares insights on building the perfect media server with Linux, Plex, Jellyfin, ZFS, mergerfs, TrueNAS, Docker Compose. Topics include hardware, software, data protection, Synology features, content creation, server naming, privacy concerns, Plex vs. Jellyfin comparison, favorite movies, technical Wi-Fi challenges, and collaborative content creation.
Building the perfect media server involves hardware/software integration like Plex and ZFS.
Venture capitalists exhibit a mix of empathy and ruthlessness for tech investments.
HBO's Silicon Valley showcases complex characters like Hoover and Patrice for humor and intensity.
Prioritizing power efficiency in home lab setups balances functionality with cost savings.
Deep dives
Building an OpenSense Firewall on Old Hardware
Running an OpenSense box on a budget-friendly setup using an old i3 processor and the DQ77KB motherboard. While the build is still relevant despite its age, the system's power draw is around 25 to 30 Watts, prompting a search for a more power-efficient replacement. The post delves into creating a cost-effective mini ITX firewall system with dual NICs suitable for users looking to build their own firewalls.
Discussion on Venture Capitalists in Tech
Reflecting on the portrayal of venture capitalists in popular media, such as HBO's Silicon Valley, where characters like Lori Breen showcase a ruthless and analytical approach in decision-making. The discussion touches on the reality and stereotypes around VC behavior in the tech industry, highlighting the blend of empathy and ruthlessness often associated with successful VCs.
Silicon Valley Fan Chat
Engaging in a discussion about the intricacies and depth of characters in HBO's Silicon Valley, where unique characters like Hoover and Patrice bring a mix of humor, intensity, and relational dynamics. The conversation covers memorable scenes, character arcs, and the mastery behind the show in blending comedy with tech industry satire.
Analyzing Power Efficiency in Home Labs
Exploring the impact of power efficiency in home lab setups due to increasing energy costs and environmental considerations. The post explains the shift towards prioritizing power-efficient hardware solutions, balancing functionality and energy consumption based on utility value and long-term cost savings.
Evolution of Media Servers
The journey to finding the perfect media server is an ongoing process filled with constant iterations and improvements. Despite the quest for perfection, like in the story of Alex and Linux server.io, reaching the ideal media server may be a theoretical pursuit. The key takeaway is to continue learning, iterating, and embracing the evolving nature of media server setups.
Acknowledging Sponsors and Partners
Special thanks to Century for sponsoring the show with a discount code 'CHANGELAW' offering $100 off. Also, TailScale, which not only supports Alex but also provides a reliable telnet mesh network solution that the host highly appreciates. Additionally, Coda earns a mention as a beloved partner within the tech ecosystem.
Fly.io Gratitude and Musical Appreciation
A massive thank you to Fly for hosting the home of ChangeLog.com, where apps, databases, and AI projects can be launched near users. Break master Cylinder's beats are exalted, elevating the episodes with their catchy rhythm and serving as the audio essence throughout the show. Fly.io stands out as a developer-centric cloud platform to watch.
Alex Kretzschmar joins Adam to discuss their experiences with building the “perfect media server” and all the hardware and software involved to make it happen — LinuxServer.io, PerfectMediaServer.com, Plex, Jellyfin, ZFS, mergerfs, TrueNAS, Docker Compose and so much more in this episode.
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Sponsors:
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Tailscale – Adam loves Tailscale! Tailscale is programmable networking software that’s private and secure by default. It’s the easiest way to connect devices and services to each other, wherever they are. Secure, remote access to production, databases, servers, kubernetes, and more. Try Tailscale for free for up to 100 devices and 3 users at changelog.com/tailscale, no credit card required. Also check out Remotely access Home Assistant via Tailscale for free!
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