mettlifeJun 19, 2025

Today I am starting my #homelab journey on #linux. I have never worked with #linux before but read a lot to prepare. So far my setup will look something like this:

Homelab running Ubuntu server with cockpit, as well as XFCE with xrdp for Remote Desktop to ease myself into using #linux. I am planning on running Plex, Immich, Pihole, and Home Assistant in the beginning, setting up one after another in that order.

Any tips & tricks or thoughts that can help me on this journey?

Wish me luck..

Show threadJRaccoonJun 19, 2025

@mettlife I second what others have said about skipping remote desktop and just using SSH.

Regardless, I would go with pure Debian instead of Ubuntu. For starters, Debian allows you to select Xfce during installation, whereas Ubuntu forces Gnome on you, unless you download the Xubuntu ISO.

I recommend Ubuntu for learning Linux for daily computing, but for beginner home server setups, I recommend Debian. Since Ubuntu is based on Debian, most tutorials written for Ubuntu work well on Debian.

Show threadmettlifeJun 19, 2025
@jakeRaccoon thanks. I realize I should’ve been more specific. I’m planning on using Ubuntu Server LTS. If I researched correctly that should not come with Gnome. I’ll make sure to double check.
Show threadJRaccoonJun 19, 2025
@mettlife Oh, right. I didn't remember there's a server flavor of Ubuntu too. Makes total sense it won't have any DE by default. I must say tho, in that case it makes even less sense to spend time and system resources in a GUI that you most likely won't need, imo.
Show threadmettlife
@jakeRaccoon haha yea it’s a bit counterintuitive. It’s really only born out of fear since I’ve only ever used a GUI. If I realize I am not using it, it will just get binned. For now my goal is ease of mind when starting the journey.
Jun 19, 2025 at 8:31amWeb