VertexLab
My personal Home Lab
Year
2025
Type of Project
Side Project
My Role
Software Engineer
Case Study
Objective
VertexLab🔗 My dedicated R&D sandbox for prototyping cloud-native architectures, self-hosting services, and testing bleeding-edge technologies before production.
Process
I run a containerized environment using Docker, managing external access securely with Nginx as a reverse proxy. I use n8n to automate personal workflows and connect different APIs. Crucially, this is my training ground for Cybersecurity, where I simulate attacks and harden my network to learn defense strategies in practice.
Outcome
A fully functional home server that makes my life easier through automation, keeps my data private, and gives me the hands-on experience that you can't get just by reading documentation.
Standout Features
Containerized Core: The entire infrastructure runs on Docker. This keeps services isolated, portable, and easy to upgrade or rollback if I break something.
Secure Gateway: Nginx acts as the reverse proxy, managing traffic and ensuring all connections are encrypted (SSL) and secure before reaching my internal services.
Workflow Automation: I use n8n to connect APIs and automate repetitive tasks, turning static data into active, useful notifications and actions.
Active Defense: A live sandbox for Cybersecurity learning. I use it to simulate vulnerabilities, practice network hardening, and understand attack vectors in a controlled environment.