Welcome
Welcome to ReadTheManual
Built for tinkerers, engineers, and future tech leaders.
This isn’t just a blog — it’s a blueprint.
If you’re learning tech on your own terms — nights, weekends, Raspberry Pis, dusty server racks or if you’re bootstrapping your way into cybersecurity, automating your home network, or chasing your first cloud certificate this space is for you.
We’re building a community of tinkerers, career changers, and future tech leaders — people learning on their own terms, evenings and weekends, with a mix of Raspberry Pis, cloud credits, and battle-hardened curiosity.
Build great Starter and advanced projects with
How to Build Your First Homelab (2025 Edition)
Start with the basics — no rack needed. Learn how to build a powerful setup using affordable gear like Raspberry Pi and old hardware.
Getting Started with the Cloud
Spin up free virtual machines, learn the basics of Azure, and build skills that translate directly into real-world IT roles.
Free Tools, Credits, and Resources to Get Started
You don’t need a big budget. Here’s a curated list of free cloud credits, open-source tools, and starter kits to fuel your lab.
What You’ll Find Here
Whether you’re running your first Pi or deploying full-stack VMs, this site is about doing the job before you get the job.
Homelab builds
Raspberry Pi, Proxmox, Unifi, Docker
Automation projects
n8n, Home Assistant, scripts, AI agents
Cybersecurity/ Hacking
practical, real-world, not textbook fluff
Career guidance
how to go from tinkerer to tech leader
Home Made Clouds
Azure, AWS, GCP, Private and public clouds
Free resources
build sheets, starter guides, templates
Join the RTM Tech Hub
Create your free account to unlock member-only build sheets, downloadable scripts, private walkthroughs, and our community forums.
Latest Videos
We’re working hard to get high quality tech, build and training videos onto our youtube channel – follow us here
Your lab. Your rules.
Don’t wait for the job — build the skill.
Welcome to ReadTheManual.
