Network planning
Plan the homelab network before the hardware list.
HLBuilder works best when the diagram starts with network flow: gateway, switch, access point, storage, and compute. That order makes IP assignments and service placement much easier to reason about.
The planning order
- Pick the gateway and decide which subnet the lab should use. HLBuilder assigns router nodes to the gateway role and calculates reachable devices from there.
- Add switches and access points next. This shows whether servers, NAS devices, and Wi-Fi clients have a clear path back to the router.
- Place storage and compute nodes only after the network path is visible. This keeps the design from turning into a list of disconnected hardware.
- Save the layout, then run network calculation. HLBuilder reads the saved nodes and edges, assigns IPs, and exposes missing router or orphan-device problems.
Use predictable ranges
A small lab is easier to operate when device roles stay in predictable address ranges. HLBuilder uses role-based ranges for routers, switches, access points, NAS units, servers, mini PCs, and other node types. That makes the diagram, generated configs, and future troubleshooting line up.
If two routers share the same /24, keep the design intentional. HLBuilder tracks used offsets for the shared subnet so reachable devices do not receive duplicate addresses. The better fix is still a clear routing plan.
Topology checks to make before buying gear
- Every server or NAS that needs a static address has a path back to a router.
- Switch ports and uplinks match the number of wired devices in the layout.
- Access points are connected where PoE, roaming, and wired backhaul make sense.
- UPS and PDU placement matches the devices that should survive a power event.
- Experimental machines sit where a mistake will not break storage or DNS.
Common questions
What should be planned first in a homelab network?
Start with the router, switching path, wireless coverage, and IP ranges. Add compute and storage after the network shape is clear.
Why does HLBuilder need devices to be connected?
HLBuilder calculates network assignments from the saved topology. Connected devices can inherit the expected network path, while disconnected devices remain visible as planning gaps.
Next step
Open HLBuilder, create a project, and add only the network backbone first. Once the router, switch, and storage path are clear, add service hosts and browse hardware ideas.