7 Best Docker Containers for Your Home Lab
Setting up a home lab is an excellent way to experiment with self-hosted applications, improve your DevOps skills, and create a private cloud for various services. Docker makes it easy to deploy and manage these applications. In this article, we’ll explore seven of the best Docker containers for a home lab setup.
Portainer – Container Management Made Easy
Why? Managing Docker containers through the command line can be complex. Portainer provides a user-friendly web interface to monitor and manage your containers efficiently.
Key Features:
- Web-based GUI for Docker management
- Supports Docker, Kubernetes, and Swarm
- Easy container deployment and monitoring
Installation Command:
Pi-hole – Network-wide Ad Blocking
Why? Block ads and tracking across all devices on your network by acting as a DNS sinkhole.
Key Features:
- Blocks ads and trackers at the DNS level
- Reduces bandwidth usage and improves privacy
- Works with any device on your network
Installation Command:
Home Assistant – Smart Home Automation
Why? Control and automate your smart home devices without relying on cloud services.
Key Features:
- Supports Zigbee, Z-Wave, and MQTT
- Works locally without an internet connection
- Customizable automation and integrations
Installation Command:
Nextcloud – Self-hosted Cloud Storage
Why? Own your cloud storage and avoid reliance on third-party services like Google Drive or Dropbox.
Key Features:
- File storage, sharing, and syncing
- Supports plugins for notes, calendars, and contacts
- End-to-end encryption
Installation Command:
Jellyfin – Media Streaming Server
Why? Stream your movies, TV shows, and music from anywhere without subscription fees.
Key Features:
- Open-source alternative to Plex and Emby
- Supports multiple media formats
- No subscription or hidden fees
Installation Command:
Uptime Kuma – Self-hosted Monitoring
Why? Keep track of your websites, services, and devices with uptime monitoring and alerts.
Key Features:
- Monitors HTTP, TCP, and DNS services
- Provides real-time status updates and alerts
- Works with Telegram, Discord, and Slack notifications
Installation Command:
Vaultwarden – Self-hosted Password Manager
Why? Securely store and manage your passwords with a lightweight, self-hosted alternative to Bitwarden.
Key Features:
- End-to-end encryption for passwords
- Works with Bitwarden browser extensions and mobile apps
- Lightweight compared to the full Bitwarden server
Installation Command:
Bonus Containers for Your Home Lab
If you want to expand your home lab even further, consider adding:
- Grafana + Prometheus – Monitor system performance and Docker containers.
- WireGuard/OpenVPN* – Set up a secure VPN server.*
- Authelia* – Add authentication for self-hosted applications.*
Conclusion
With these seven Docker containers, you can build a powerful and efficient home lab. Whether you’re managing your network, securing your passwords, or streaming media, these tools help you create a private, self-hosted environment tailored to your needs.
