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Joined 1 year ago
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Cake day: June 21st, 2023

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  • If you’re looking for a more mature networking setup, I would definitely recommend splitting up your router, switch and AP duties into separate devices. It gives you the most flexibility for when you want to tinker or change things.

    For a main router setup, I would recommend OpnSense. It’s has a cloud backup feature which allows you to automatically backup the configuration to a Google Drive xml file whenever it is changed.

    The XML config file stores all your leases so you don’t have to worry about reassigning DHCP reservations. If you load the config onto a new system, like for an upgrade or if the router hardware fails, usually you just have to change the interface mappings and you’re good to go.

    As far as APs/switches, I would recommend Unifi or Mikrotik. Unifi has a fancy dashboard you can use to adopt new equipment and restore/change configs from, but I find Mikrotik easier and simpler to backup and I like that i dont have to host a controller to make config changes.






  • I really enjoy reading in my hammock. Usually I set it up in my backyard but it’s also easy to take to a park or on a hike. I just use one of those camping ones that packs away to the size of a nalgene water bottle.

    Sidenote, I also use one of these security straps on my e-reader. It allows me to read laying down in the hammock or in bed without having to completely hold onto my reader. Definitely recommend.






  • +1 for openscad. I switched over from Fusion 360 back when autodesk changed the personal use license in 2020.

    It takes a bit to get used to it, but once you’ve made a few parts you begin to see how powerful it can really be.

    Its also super lightweight, so you can run it on most systems without any issues. I’ve ran in on a chromebook before.

    The only thing I miss about fusion 360 is an easy way to add fillets to parts, that can be tricky in openscad. I use chamfers for the most part though, so I don’t miss it much.





  • A custom router + managed switch is a great way to learn. Studying the fundamentals is also good, but in my opinion it’s not as fun as setting up your own network and learning hands-on.

    If you decide to go this route I highly reccomend taking regular backups of your config (and backup again before you change stuff). Part of learning involves breaking things - trust me you will break your network - and in networking that’s one of the best ways to learn. Backups will give you an easy way to restore to a known working configuration.