UPDATE: A new homeowner has taken a bold step in modernizing an old English cottage by setting up a state-of-the-art 10 GbE LAN network. This urgent development is a significant leap in integrating traditional living with cutting-edge technology.
Located in a remote area, the cottage benefits from a surprising fiber link thanks to local advocacy and the deployment of Fiber-To-The-Premises (FTTP) by Open Reach. This connectivity inspired the homeowner to prioritize a robust network system, shifting focus from standard renovations to advanced smart home integrations.
As the new owner took possession of the property in July 2023, the excitement was palpable. While most would think of painting walls or light repairs, this homeowner dove straight into the technical aspects of their new abode. “I couldn’t stop thinking about where to place the primary server or how to connect the outbuildings,” they stated, emphasizing the importance of a seamless digital experience.
The plan includes establishing ultra-fast connections between the main house, an office outbuilding, and a detached garage. The networking setup involves routing underground conduit for fiber and Ethernet cables, ensuring redundancy and high-speed access across the property. With careful planning, the homeowner chose 30-meter rolls of fiber for reliable connections, well beyond the immediate needs.
The network will be managed through three powerful switches equipped with 10Gb SFP+ ports, designed to handle significant traffic without bottlenecks. This setup promises to deliver swift connectivity for various devices, including IP cameras and a network-attached storage (NAS) system.
To achieve optimal performance, the homeowner selected three Wi-Fi 7 access points that will eliminate dead zones, ensuring complete coverage throughout the cottage and garden. Each access point operates on Power-over-Ethernet (PoE), combining data and power in a streamlined solution.
The heart of this technological advancement lies in a custom OPNsense firewall running on a passively-cooled mini PC. This firewall will manage the LAN’s security and connectivity to the high-speed broadband, ensuring that all devices communicate effectively.
In an era where home networking often takes a backseat to aesthetic renovations, this homeowner is reversing the trend. “I wanted to create a network that wouldn’t just handle current demands but would also simplify future expansions,” they said. The meticulous planning includes documenting every aspect of the LAN, making it easy for family members to troubleshoot issues.
The implications of this setup are significant. Once operational, the network will support 4K streaming, video game servers, and self-hosted services—all without straining the system’s capacity. The homeowner envisions a lifestyle where technology enhances daily life, enabling seamless automation and connectivity.
As this cottage transformation unfolds, it serves as a compelling reminder of how technology can revitalize even the most traditional settings. The homeowner’s journey toward merging modern connectivity with classic charm is one that many will find inspiring.
Stay tuned for further updates as this incredible home networking project continues to develop.
