Homelab

Manage NixOS homelab hosts with Make-based build and deploy workflows.

Updated Aug 27, 2026

Search Tags:#automation #vpn #infrastructure #nix #dns #nixos #homelab

Ready to run

npx skills add https://github.com/vdemeester/home --skill homelab

💬 Prompt for ChatGPT / Claude Chat▼

Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: Homelab
Source: https://github.com/vdemeester/home/tree/main/dots/.config/claude/skills/Homelab
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/vdemeester/home --skill homelab

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

This Skill helps you manage a NixOS-based homelab, including host configurations, DNS, VPN, services, and home-manager setups in the home repository.

Core Features & Use Cases

Centralized guidance for managing hosts in /systems, home configs in /home/common, and modules in /modules.
Safety-first deployment workflow with explicit prompts before remote actions.
DNS, VPN, and container/service management for personal infrastructure.
Build, switch, and deploy flows for remote hosts using Make-based tooling.

Quick Start

Example: switch the current host configuration after a change. make host/athena/switch

Frequently Asked Questions about Homelab

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema

How do I deploy NixOS host configuration changes to my homelab infrastructure?▼

Deploy NixOS host configurations using Make targets like `make host/[hostname]/switch` to apply changes to the current system or `make host/[hostname]/boot` to prepare for next boot. The Skill manages /systems, /home/common, and /modules directories with safety-first deployment workflows that prompt before remote actions.

Can I manage DNS, VPN, and container services with NixOS homelab automation?▼

Yes. NixOS homelab automation covers DNS, VPN, container services, and host configurations across a centralized repository structure. Build and deploy these services using Make-based tooling with explicit safety checks before remote deployments.

What's the best way to handle secrets and encryption in a NixOS homelab setup?▼

NixOS homelab infrastructure uses agenix for secrets management with encrypted keys and deployment safety checks. This approach integrates with host configurations in /systems and /modules to secure sensitive data across your infrastructure.

How do I build and manage NixOS packages and profiles in my homelab?▼

Build NixOS packages and manage profiles using `nix build` commands integrated with Make targets. The Skill provides workflows for building, switching, and deploying configurations across multiple hosts in your homelab.

Do I need a home repository structure to use NixOS homelab automation?▼

Yes. NixOS homelab automation expects a home repository with /systems for host configurations, /home/common for shared settings, and /modules for reusable components. This structure enables centralized management and safe deployment across your infrastructure.

What makes NixOS automation better than manual infrastructure management for a homelab?▼

NixOS homelab automation provides declarative, version-controlled infrastructure with safety-first deployments, centralized host and service configurations, and reproducible builds. Make-based tooling ensures consistent application of changes across multiple systems.