Things I build, break, fix, and write about

24 April 2026
Security Advisory – 23 Apr 2026

Daily security advisory summary for 23 Apr 2026

23 April 2026
Safe methods for Copilot removal across Windows applications

Windows has a habit of putting Copilot back after updates, so I check policy first, then the package itself. If you need to remove Microsoft Copilot...

23 April 2026
Security Advisory – 21 Apr 2026

Daily security advisory summary for 21 Apr 2026

22 April 2026
Configuration management prevents home lab drift

Cheap kit only stays cheap if the software side stays disciplined. A home lab software stack turns into a mess the moment settings live in web forms...

Latest blog posts you might like

26 December 2025
Optimising automation scenes in n8n for efficiency

Learn to build reliable n8n automation scenes by breaking tasks into small, testable nodes. You will set up n8n locally, secure webhooks, use SplitInBatches, and test nodes in isolation. Follow naming...

25 December 2025
Using HandBrake Web to automate video transcoding

HandBrake Web setup on a headless server. You map config, input and output folders, run the container and enable directory watchers to automate jobs. Add worker instances for distributed encoding,...

25 December 2025
Implementing automated updates for Next.js security

Next.js security starts with automated updates. Automate OS patches and dependency PRs for your next and Node modules. Run npm audit in CI and block merges for high-severity alerts. Monitor CPU and...

24 December 2025
Building a Plex blueprint for efficient media streaming

Plex blueprint: start on paper. Sketch your hardware, storage and roles. List the media types you want, expected streams and remote users. Choose a CPU for transcoding and put Plex data on a fast SSD,...

24 December 2025
Configuring sensors for pet detection accuracy

Configuring motion sensors so pets stop setting off alarms is mostly practical work and a few smart choices. I walk through the parts that matter, from picking the right hardware to making small...

23 December 2025
Using a dimmer switch for Philips Hue automation

Use a dimmer as your base control for Philips Hue automation. Map its value to a hue range, then add a small random offset per bulb. The result keeps a single colour family while each lamp shows...

23 December 2025
Revamping Home Assistant dashboards for better usability

Transform your Home Assistant setup into a truly efficient smart home with seamless dashboard design and effective automations. Save time, simplify controls, and enhance usability.

22 December 2025
Optimising ESPHome for secure automation workflows

I build and lock down ESPHome automation scenes the same way I build servers. No glamour. No cloud dependency. Start with a clear threat model. Decide what data you will expose and what must stay...

22 December 2025
Setting up VLANs for better home lab security

VLAN Configuration matters more in a home lab than most people admit. I use it to separate services, limit blast radius and keep curious devices off my core systems. This guide shows a practical VLAN...

21 December 2025
Weekly Tech Digest | 21 Dec 2025

Stay updated with the latest in tech! This digest covers AI ethics, auto industry shifts, and the impact of politics on technology, exploring today's pressing issues.