I love Linux.
Linux has been a cornerstone of my tech career, shaping my journey in profound ways. In fact, it’s impossible to fully define who I am without acknowledging the pivotal role Linux has played in my life.
Three years ago, I set up my first Linux home server using Samba. Since I was already familiar with Ubuntu Desktop, I naturally opted for Ubuntu Server 22.04. The experience of building my own server, where I could store my files independently of big tech companies’ cloud storage solutions, was incredibly refreshing and empowering.
Since then, my home network servers have become an integral part of my daily routine. I regularly access them, often via SSH, which has fostered an environment where I interact with Linux on a consistent basis. This journey has deepened my connection to Linux and solidified its role as an essential part of my personal and professional growth.
Linux-driven life:
My entire digital life is stored on my home servers—personal documents, spreadsheets, source code, and everything in between. Whether from my Windows machines or Android devices, I access my servers using Linux-based client software and apps.
On Windows, I connect to my Samba server directly through Explorer by specifying the IP address within my home network. Additionally, I can access the entire system via the command prompt, SSH, and WinSCP.
For Android, I have multiple options, including SSH client apps like Termius and file manager apps like Root Explorer. Thanks to my home servers, I don’t need to store all my data on local devices with limited internal storage. Instead, I periodically transfer files to my servers, freeing up space on my devices.
Because of this setup, I don’t need to invest in high-end devices like the Galaxy S25 Ultra with 1TB of storage or expensive Windows machines. Instead, I store everything on my servers, ensuring seamless access across all my devices.
This is my own open-source ecosystem, built entirely by me—a testament to how technical skills can save a significant amount of money. Without Linux-related expertise, one would likely end up purchasing an expensive NAS or subscribing to costly cloud storage services with recurring fees.
Skill-enhancing experiences:
Building your own servers not only saves a significant amount of money but also helps enhance your knowledge and skills in Linux and server engineering. When I built my home servers, I had to acquire new skills, such as setting up Samba. However, the learning process doesn’t stop at just building a server—it requires ongoing maintenance, which means regularly interacting with the system.
This kind of hands-on environment is invaluable if you aspire to be a tech specialist. Beyond your job, having a setup where you engage with Linux daily is ideal for developing and refining your expertise.
Conclusion:
The entire digital world is fundamentally built on Linux. From AWS to Google Cloud and everything in between, Linux plays a crucial role in modern technology, making Linux-related skills increasingly essential.
Without Linux, our current tech-driven lifestyle simply wouldn’t be sustainable. Even Android itself is built on a customized version of the Linux kernel. Learning Linux is never a waste of time—in fact, it’s an investment. If you can leverage your Linux expertise to enhance both your productivity and quality of life, that’s truly invaluable.
My book:
Earlier last month, I published my first Linux book on Amazon. In this guide, you’ll learn how to replicate the setup I use for my home servers. The book offers a step-by-step guide to building a Samba server from scratch, complete with detailed screenshots to ensure you have all the information needed for a successful setup.
Additionally, I explain how to access your home server from both Windows and Android devices, using various software and apps—just as I do in my own environment.
As a hardcore Android fanboy and avid Windows user, I’ve tailored this book for fellow Android fans. If you share my passion for Android and Linux, I’m confident you’ll find this guide both informative and enjoyable.
Together, let’s explore the world of Linux and unlock its limitless potential!