I figured I would start this blog with the current status of my home lab. My lab has always been my go-to place to learn and try out new technologies hands-on. Having a place that I can build out an entire network and quickly take down to start over again has been a critical tool in my career. Below is a breakdown of the physical equipment in the lab.
In the LackRack
- X2 Dell PowerEdge R710
- OS: VMware ESXi, 6.7.0
- Dual Intel Zeron E5645
- 256GB RAM
- 12 NICS
- X2 300GB SAS 10k Raid 1
- 256 GB SSD
In the 2 post rack
- Samsung SmartThings Hub
- 3com 5500 24 port POE switch
- 48 Port Patch Panel
- QNAP TS-439 Pro ll+
- CyberPower UPS
Virtual Servers
- Untangle Firewall
- Domain Controller (Windows)
- Unifi Controller (Linux)
- Unifi Video Controller (Linux)
- vCenter Appliance
- Veeam (Windows)
- Windows server lab
The Dell R710s are running ESXi 6.7 that are clustered together with vCenter. I was able to accomplish this using VMware VMUG licensing. Having vCenter running allows me to simulate clients’ networks and gives me access to all VMware offerings to test. This will be especially handy when it comes time to take the VCP test.
The first project for 2019 I would like to deploy a new Unifi 24 port switch to offload all non-POE devices off the 3com switch and clean up cables to the rack. This will allow me to install more Ubiquiti and make the cable runs much easier in the future.
Until next time!