So, consider a CPU platform with multiple cores. If there are not enough resources to share among all the virtual machines, they'll be overallocated and try to steal each other's CPU cycles and memory.

The two most important factors to consider in a virtualization server are the number and speed of its CPU cores and its memory. If you want to do a test or try something without the risk of breaking your entire system, just spin up a new virtual machine and you're ready to go. If you break one virtual machine, you won't have to rebuild the entire server, just the virtual one. Virtualization serversĪ virtualization server allows you to run several virtual machines that share the physical box's resources while maximizing and isolating resources. You'll need three types of hardware: a virtualization server, storage, and a router/firewall. They are usually inexpensive, and server-grade hardware is built to last many years. If buying new hardware is too expensive, search local universities, ads, and websites like eBay or Craigslist for recycled servers. When thinking about your hardware needs, first consider how you plan to use your lab as well as your budget, noise, space, and power usage. We'll look at the first two categories here and save maintaining your computer lab for a future article. There are three categories to consider when planning a home lab: hardware, software, and maintenance. There are many reasons to have a homelab, and this guide aims to make it easier to get started.

Welcome to the communityĭo you want to create a homelab? Maybe you want to experiment with different technologies, create development environments, or have your own private cloud.

Router operating system