A reality check for using an old i5 mini PC as a home server
The HP ProDesk 600 G2 DM mini PC has an Intel i5-6500T, 20GB of memory, a 256GB SATA drive, Intel AX200 Wi-Fi, and Intel HD 530 graphics. The plan is to install and use it as a first serious Linux machine that can stay on for long periods without using much power. The intended uses include everyday Linux desktop work, VS Code with such as Claude Code and Copilot, and learning Git and Docker.
The same machine would also run a small for a few friends, manage a local FLAC music library, and try self-s such as Navidrome, Jellyfin, Immich, and . The main questions are whether the i5-6500T is still strong enough in 2026, whether 20GB of memory is enough, whether Ubuntu is the right choice, and which Docker projects make sense for a beginner.
Key points
- The hardware is an HP mini PC with an i5-6500T, 20GB of memory, and a 256GB SATA drive.
- The goal is a low-power Linux machine that can stay on for long periods.
- Planned uses include Git, Docker, , a small , and a local music library.
- The service list includes Navidrome, Jellyfin, Immich, and .
- The real decision is not only raw speed; memory, storage, power use, and beginner-friendly setup matter.