I set up a home server for the first time and these 5 apps changed everything

A first-time home server builder shares five apps that made self-hosting worthwhile after installing Proxmox on an old gaming PC. Jellyfin replaced multiple streaming subscriptions with a personal media server set up via Docker in 15 minutes. Nextcloud took more effort but became a full Google Drive, Calendar, and Contacts replacement with file sync across devices. Immich provided a Google Photos-like experience with automatic mobile backup, facial recognition, and timeline view — all running on personal hardware.