I am somewhat late into the Linux-verse (three years in now) and want to move into self-hosting to do two things:
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Host my own Jitsi server and sessions. (or any other open source solution)
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Host my own solution to privately and securely share photographs of my kids and life here with my family abroad.
At some point, I want to host my own little static-website about myself which should “replace” having to give people a LinkedIn account or something.
The thing is, I know nothing about owning domains, etc. I have never done this before. I have been lurking around this forum to learn some of the basics, but would really like a more tailored reply (is possible). I am working in Europe.
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Which computer should I use? I want to host everything on my computer at home. I don’t want to go the VPS route.
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Where can I buy an inexpensive domain(s)? I assume I only need one.
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What other things do I need to consider? My current broadband is IPv4 only.
I wouldn’t follow the advice of using Immich. While its a great tool, growing fast and super polished, its currently aimed at photo backup from your android phone/tablet and is not a good pick for a family photo gallery.
To that end I would look into pigallery2 or the very good homegallery, which is still in early stages as well but also quite polished and already working great. They will not replace Immich, but will complete the workflow nicely.
My photo management flow (which includes your requirements, plus the capability to organize new photos over time) is here https://wiki.gardiol.org/doku.php?id=services:photomanagement if you are interested.
In general the flow is to buy or recycle a pc of anykind, install linux (optional, but recomendes), buy a domain you like from some registrar, setup some kind of remote access from outside to your home, and install the services you want.
The workflow mandatory includes hours spent trying and failing, and also having tons of fun in the process. Don’t forget the WAF (Wife Appreciation Factor) which will determine how much fun you can have.
Last, i al documenting all my steps and proceedings while I run down my own selfhost rabbit hole in the above linked wiki (self hosted, ofc).
See you around, I guess!