// writing
Notes and write-ups
everything tagged devops
How I access my private homelab from the internet without a VPN
Accessing self-hosted services from outside a local network typically involves choosing between a complex VPN or exposing ports to the public internet. By implementing mutual TLS, devices present a client certificate during the connection handshake to prove their identity before any data is processed. This approach allows specifically authorized devices to access homelab services directly through a secure gateway, bypassing the need for manual VPN connections or recurring service fees.
LaundryAlert - never forget your laundry again
Forgetful habits regarding completed laundry cycles led to the development of a custom monitoring system that triggers push notifications on mobile devices. By combining a light-sensitive sensor on a washing machine with a control board, a solution was created to detect status changes and alert users remotely. This project combines basic electronics with custom software to solve a frequent household annoyance.
Self signed SSL certificates on iOS
Development on local network services often requires the use of self-signed SSL certificates for secure communication. Mobile devices typically reject these certificates by default because they lack validation from a recognized certificate authority. This process outlines how to bridge that gap by trusting a local root certificate on an iOS device to ensure secure, private connections.
Running HTTPS on localhost
Development environments often require HTTPS to properly test features that rely on secure connections. This guide covers generating self-signed certificates and configuring local web servers to enable encrypted traffic on a development machine. It also looks at how to map custom domain names to local resources to simplify the testing process.
Keeping track of database changes and when it can be useful
This article explores the concept of database replication and how it can be utilized to synchronize data between systems or feed external services. It covers the mechanics of write-ahead logging and logical decoding, which allow tracked changes to be exported in usable formats. The post also highlights necessary configuration steps for managed environments and potential pitfalls to monitor when implementing these techniques.