Homelab Network Setup
Use this skill to design a home or small-lab network that can grow without needing a full rebuild.
When to Use
- Planning a new home network or redesigning an ISP-router-only setup.
- Choosing gateway, switch, and access point roles.
- Designing IP ranges, DHCP scopes, static reservations, and DNS.
- Preparing for future VLANs, Pi-hole, NAS, lab servers, or VPN access.
- Troubleshooting a new network that has double NAT, unstable Wi-Fi, or changing server addresses.
How It Works
Start by separating device roles:
Internet
|
Modem or ONT
|
Gateway or router NAT, firewall, DHCP, DNS, inter-VLAN routing
|
Managed switch wired clients, AP uplinks, optional VLAN trunks
|
Access points Wi-Fi only; ideally wired backhaul
Servers and NAS stable addresses, DNS names, monitoring
Clients and IoT DHCP pools, isolated later if VLANs are available
Pick a gateway that matches the operator, not just the feature checklist:
| Option | Best fit | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| ISP router | Basic internet only | Limited control and often poor VLAN support |
| UniFi gateway | Managed home network | Good UI, ec… |
