Raspberry Pi

The problem with streaming in 2025 When Netflix launched its “Watch Now” streaming feature in 2007, it revolutionized how people consumed television and film. For one monthly fee, you could watch your favorite shows and movies. Netflix Watch Now required no contracts or physical media, and there were no limitations on where, how, or how often you watched. It was simple and affordable. Fast forward to 2025, and streaming has become increasingly frustrating. On one hand, the competition amongst platforms has created better content with higher quality writing. However, it has also introduced several major drawbacks: ...

Advantages of Hosting My Own Network Services Trusting my network security and services to my Internet Service Provider (ISP) offers convenience through their Domain Name System (DNS) services and simplified network management. Additionally, third-party Virtual Private Network (VPN) providers like ExpressVPN offer critical traffic encryption, especially when using public networks such as those in coffee shops and airports. However, relying on my ISP and a third-party VPN provider raises concerns: ...

Introduction and Motivations In 2021, I was incredibly excited to move into a networked home with hardwired network drops that offered a couple of advantages. First, I can provide better content delivery to TVs, gaming consoles, and computers with hardwired connections. Second, I can provide blackout-proof power to wireless access points by using Power over Ethernet. Selfishly, I also used the move as a catalyst to “Cosplay as a Sysadmin,” as Jeff Geerling puts it. After some research, purchases, and several hours of setup, I’ve been able to implement some practical, quality-of-life-improving solutions that I use on a daily basis, including home automation, content streaming, and network administration. I’ll be publishing a number of blog posts that go into detail about how I designed my home network, what I’ve learned, and the challenges I faced along the way. I hope you continue reading to follow along. ...