WhoAmI

As a Junior Linux Engineer with a deep-rooted passion for technology, I have been immersed in the world of Linux since the early 2000s. My journey with tech began even earlier when I picked up the BASIC documentation that came with my PCjr and began to write small programs and games, igniting a lifelong fascination with coding and systems management. In my current role, I help manage Single-Tenant infrastructure using tools like Ansible, Docker, Kubernetes, and Terraform. And beyond my professional responsibilities, I also enjoy solving problems by writing scripts in Python and Bash for personal projects for my home lab, allowing me to continually hone my skills and explore new technological frontiers. With a strong foundation in Linux and a proactive approach to learning and innovation, I am committed to advancing my expertise and contributing to impactful projects in the field of IT infrastructure and automation.

Penguin Ninja

Some of the Tech I Use:

Linux:

Have installed, configured, and used a Linux server and desktop in production for my home-lab since the mid 2000s. Have used Linux desktop (currently KDE Plasma) as a “Daily Driver” since 2010. I use Arch BTW… ;)

LAMP:

Successfully installed, configured, and deployed a LAMP (Linux, Apache, MySQL, PHP) stack on an Arch server for a Wordpress website. Created SSL encryption using Letsencrypt. Have since then replaced Apache with Nginx.

Successfully installed, configured, and deployed into production Nextcloud, Vaultwarden (Bitwarden), Collabora, and Jellyfin servers for my household and personal use.

Docker:

Migrated native installations of these services to containers by learning and using Docker and Docker Compose. Have containerized full stack software solutions that rely on multiple nodes to function.

Networking:

Secured my home network with Open Source software by utilizing OpenWRT on a custom built PC based router/firewall and separating the LAN into different zones. Further secured LAN by installing an instance of Pi-Hole to use as an ad blocker and DNS/DHCP server.

Scripting:

Created a BASH script using Systemd timers and Pi-Hole to block and unblock certain MAC/IP addresses from accessing the internet at certain times. You can read about it here.

Created a Backup solution for my home-lab server by using Rsync, Systemd timers, and BASH.

VPN:

Created a VPN, using Tailscale, to use when outside of the home LAN.

Programming Projects:

archive-dl:

An archive.org downloader written in python.

thumbnail:

A thumbnail maker using BASH and ffmpeg.

home-backup:

A BASH script that will backup your home folders in compressed tarballs if changes are detected.

In My Toolbox:

Ansible Bash Docker
Git HAProxy Kubernetes
Linux MySQL Nginx
Nix Python Vagrant
Varnish

Other Hobbies and Interests:

In addition to loving all things electronics and technology, I enjoy creating and making things with my wife for our home. I also enjoy modding and doing general maintenance on my cars.

© 2022 - 2024 Gary Sparks
Linux, Scripting, and Self-Hosting Projects
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