Network

content/2.general/1.networking/1.nat.md

@@ -26,7 +26,7 @@ When it receives data through a port, your router forwards that data to the mach
 
 Your router has over 65,000 ports available.
 
-Some programs and applications are designed to use specific ports. For example, when your network sends data from an HTML page, the router receives it through port 80 (non-secure) or port 443 (secure via SSL).  
+Some programs and applications are designed to use specific ports. For example, when your network sends data from an HTML page, the router receives it through port 80 (non-secure) or port `443` (secure via SSL).  
 
 So, your router acts as a data dispatcher between the internet and your local machines.
 

content/2.general/3.hardware/1.basics.md

@@ -0,0 +1,171 @@
+---
+navigation: true
+title: The Basics
+main:
+  fluid: false
+---
+:ellipsis{left=0px width=40rem top=10rem blur=140px}
+# Server Basics
+
+::alert{type="info"}
+🎯 __Objectives:__
+- Understand the fundamentals of server hardware
+::
+
+![hardware](/img/global/hardware.svg)
+
+
+A __server__ is essentially a computer dedicated to specific tasks, designed to remain accessible at all times. Structurally, it's not much different from a regular computer. Depending on its intended use, some components may vary. This article serves as a reference to help you understand the essential components of a server and how their roles adapt based on your needs.
+
+## Motherboard
+---
+The __motherboard__ is the foundation of your machine. It's the component that connects all others together. It enables communication between components and interaction with peripherals (keyboard, mouse, etc.). Choose it based on your I/O (Input/Output) needs like USB ports, network ports, speed, etc., and ensure compatibility with the components you plan to install.
+
+Key components connected to the motherboard:
+- CPU
+- RAM
+- Storage (HDD and/or SSD)
+- Optional dedicated GPU
+
+Common consumer motherboard formats:
+- E-ATX: largest
+- ATX: standard
+- Micro-ATX: smaller
+- Mini-ITX: smallest
+
+Larger boards generally offer more ports and features. Pre-built systems might use proprietary formats.
+
+## CPU
+---
+<div style="display: flex; align-items: center;">
+  <img src="/img/global/cpu.svg" alt="Image" style="max-width: 25%; max-height:230px; margin-right: 20px;">
+  <p>The <strong>CPU</strong> (Central Processing Unit) is the computer's calculator. It processes most software tasks. Modern CPUs have multiple cores, often with virtual threads, to better handle workloads. They need to be cooled using either an active cooler (with a fan) or a passive one (fanless), depending on power consumption (watts). Choose your CPU based on how you plan to use the server.</p>
+</div>
+
+::alert{type="warning"}
+:::list{type="warning"}
+- __Caution:__ Ensure third-party coolers are compatible with the CPU socket and always apply thermal paste before installing the cooler.
+:::
+::
+
+Consider:
+- Number of cores (more cores = better multitasking)
+- Clock speed in GHz
+- Power consumption in Watts
+
+For low-power home servers or NAS (non-intensive computing), consider Intel N100/150 (4 cores) or N305/N355 (8 cores)—efficient and low power (ideal for 24/7 uptime).
+
+## RAM
+---
+
+<p align="center">
+  <img src="/img/global/ram.svg" alt="Image" style="max-width: 65%;">
+</p>
+
+__RAM__ (Random Access Memory) is fast, temporary memory used by the CPU (and iGPU if applicable) for quick access during execution. It clears periodically and when the machine powers down. Better RAM = better CPU performance.
+
+Comes as sticks installed on the motherboard. Varies by format and generation (currently DDR5).
+
+## GPU
+---
+
+The __GPU__ (Graphics Processing Unit) handles graphical, video, and sometimes AI-related processing. Its main theoretical use is to display the image on your screen. In servers, it's useful for media centers (e.g. [Plex](/serveex/media/plex)) and for accelerating AI tasks like facial recognition or photo indexing (e.g. [Immich](/serveex/cloud/immich)).
+
+Depending on the required performance, one can choose between a dedicated GPU with its own VRAM (a graphics card connected to a PCIe slot on the motherboard), or an iGPU—an integrated GPU built into the CPU (such as the N100/N150 or N305/N355), which uses the system’s shared RAM.
+
+### HDD(s)
+---
+
+<p align="center">
+  <img src="/img/global/hdd.svg" alt="Image" style="max-width: 50%; margin-right: 20px;">
+</p>
+
+An __HDD__ (Hard Disk Drive), or hard drive, is a component used to store data. It was once the standard storage device in computers. HDDs consist of one or more stacked platters and read/write heads—somewhat like a vinyl record player.
+
+Today, HDDs can store enormous amounts of data (up to 30TB, or 30,000 gigabytes, for consumer models), but their read and write speeds are limited due to their mechanical nature. They are also bulky and heavy.
+
+Generally, HDDs are best suited for storing data that doesn’t require frequent access or fast write speeds, such as media files (videos, photos), cloud drives, or archived data. They perform well in these scenarios and, most importantly, are significantly cheaper than SSDs for the same amount of storage.
+
+::alert{type="success"}
+:::list{type="success"}
+- __Tip:__ Use multiple HDDs in [RAID](/general/storage/raid) to enhance performance and redundancy.
+:::
+::
+
+Comes in 3.5" and 2.5" formats; servers usually favor the more reliable 3.5".
+
+### SSD(s)
+---
+
+<p align="center">
+  <img src="/img/global/nvme.svg" alt="Image" style="max-width: 50%; margin-right: 20px;">
+</p>
+
+An __SSD__ (Solid State Drive) is a small circuit board with memory chips soldered onto it, used to store information. Unlike RAM, these chips retain data even when not powered, meaning the information is preserved after a reboot. SSDs are generally used as the main storage medium for your server.
+
+Unlike HDDs, SSDs have no moving parts, are highly compact, and most importantly, are extremely fast—offering speeds of several gigabytes per second for high-performance models.
+
+SSDs come in various formats, but today the preferred choice is the M.2 NVMe version, as it is the smallest, fastest, and has become the standard on modern motherboards.
+
+However, SSDs are significantly more expensive than hard drives for the same storage capacity. Typically, the operating system (OS) is installed on the SSD to ensure fast performance. In a server environment, it's also ideal to store [Docker containers](/serveex/core/docker) and databases on the SSD. More broadly, any data that needs to be accessed frequently and quickly—such as websites, applications, or processing workloads—should be stored on an SSD.
+
+### Network Card
+---
+
+A __network card__ allows your machine to communicate with your network (including the internet). It consists of a controller chip and one or more network ports. These ports—often Ethernet ports—can come in different physical formats and support various data transfer standards:
+
+- __RJ45 Gigabit Ethernet (10/100/1000):__ The standard RJ45 connector, supporting speeds from 10 Mbps (0.125 MB/s) up to 1000 Mbps (125 MB/s).
+- __RJ45 2.5G:__ Same connector type, supporting up to 2.5 Gbps (2,500 Mbps or 312.5 MB/s).
+- __RJ45 5G:__ Same connector, supporting up to 5 Gbps (625 MB/s).
+- __RJ45 10G Base-T:__ Same RJ45 format, supporting up to 10 Gbps (1.25 GB/s).
+- __SFP 1G:__ SFP port, commonly used for fiber optic connections, supporting speeds up to 1 Gbps.
+- __SFP+ 10G:__ An enhanced version of the SFP port, also used for fiber optics, supporting up to 10 Gbps.
+
+::alert{type="warning"}
+:::list{type="warning"}
+- __Caution:__ Match network gear (router, switch, cables) to your desired speed. For most uses, CAT5E cables are enough; use CAT6A beyond 10 Gbps. Fiber requires additional care (simplex, duplex, transceivers...).
+:::
+::
+
+The network card is usually built directly into the motherboard, but you can also use dedicated network cards, for example via USB or a PCIe expansion slot.
+
+In general, for a server setup, it's recommended to have at least two Ethernet ports to ensure redundancy in case one connection fails.
+
+### Input/Output Ports
+---
+
+__I/O__ ports allow communication with external devices (displays, keyboard, mouse, network...). Motherboards typically offer:
+- Ethernet ports
+- USB ports (varied types/speeds)
+- Video ports
+- Audio jacks
+
+Choose a motherboard and expansions based on your I/O needs.
+
+### Power Supply
+---
+
+The __power supply unit__ (PSU) is the component that provides electrical power to your machine’s components. It connects to the wall via a power cord and has several output cables that plug into the motherboard and various peripherals, such as hard drives or dedicated graphics cards.
+
+A power supply is defined by several key characteristics:
+
+- Wattage (its total power output),
+- Modularity (whether the cables are fixed or detachable),
+- Efficiency (measured as a percentage). For example, a 500W PSU with 80% efficiency will actually draw 625W from the wall to deliver 500W to the system.
+
+Another important factor is the form factor. There are several standard sizes, from ATX L (for larger cases) to SFX (for compact builds). There are also specialized models for rack-mounted servers, which are typically flat and space-efficient.
+
+To choose the right PSU, a common rule of thumb is to estimate your system’s power needs based on usage, and then double that value. This is because most power supplies operate at optimal efficiency around 50% of their maximum load.
+
+### Case
+---
+
+<div style="display: flex; align-items: center;">
+  <img src="/img/global/case.svg" alt="Image" style="max-width: 25%; max-height:230px; margin-right: 20px;">
+  <p>The <strong>case</strong> is also an essential component of your machine. It plays a key role in cooling, through its fans and airflow design, and it determines the form factor compatibility for your motherboard, power supply, and any dedicated GPU you may install.
+</p>
+</div>
+
+Additionally, the case dictates how many HDDs you can install and what formats they support. Some cases are rack-mountable, meaning they can be installed in server racks (server cabinets).
+
+Choose your case carefully based on your specific needs and the hardware you plan to use.

content/2.general/3.hardware/2.network.md

@@ -0,0 +1,132 @@
+---
+navigation: true
+title: Network
+main:
+  fluid: false
+---
+:ellipsis{left=0px width=40rem top=10rem blur=140px}
+# Network
+
+::alert{type="info"}
+🎯 __Objectives:__
+- Understand the basics of networking hardware
+::
+
+![hardware](/img/global/hardware-networking.svg)
+
+A computer network cannot exist without the hardware required to build it. Hardware determines the size of the network, communication speeds, and its overall performance. In this article, we will focus on the simplest types of networks, typically found in home environments.
+
+## The Router
+---
+The __router__ is the central hub of your network. It directs __packets__—the blocks of data that travel across your network—from the sender to the appropriate recipient. It manages the routing of data both within your local network and to/from external networks. In short, it enables devices to communicate with each other and with the internet.
+
+Everyone has a router at home—it's the __internet box__ provided by your ISP (Internet Service Provider).
+
+In general, a router consists of:
+- a WAN (Wide Area Network) port that receives data from the internet (or from a higher-level network). For example, it could be a port for a fiber optic connection from your ISP, or an SFP+/RJ45 port for a third-party router.
+- a switch, i.e., a hub with several __LAN__ (Local Area Network) ports allowing multiple devices to connect to your network. These ports can be RJ45 or SFP/SFP+.
+- sometimes a built-in WiFi transmitter/receiver.
+
+A router may also include _firewall_ capabilities, allowing you to restrict traffic from specific devices, as well as _[NAT (Network Address Translation)](/general/networking/nat)_ for port forwarding. It generally includes a _[DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol)](/general/networking/nat#dhcp)_ server to automatically assign _IP addresses_ to devices connected to the network.
+
+The router directly affects communication speeds between devices. The WAN port limits the maximum internet speed you can receive from your ISP. For example, if your subscription offers 5 Gb/s, you’ll need a WAN port that supports at least 5 Gb/s. Likewise, internal device-to-device communication is limited by the speed of the switch. If your devices communicate at 5 Gb/s, the router’s switch must have 5 Gb/s ports. If you're using WiFi 7 equipment and want to enjoy its full speed, your router must support it as well. If you’re using a separate WiFi access point, make sure its network port matches or exceeds the speed of the WiFi it broadcasts—and that the router supports it too.
+
+Internet speed, number of devices, WiFi speed, and internal network speed—these are the four key factors to consider when choosing an internet box or buying your own router.
+
+::alert{type="success"}
+✨ __Tip:__
+You can easily use a third-party router to manage your network if your ISP’s internet box supports _bridge mode_. In France, only the provider Free offers this option. It is technically possible with other providers that do not support bridge mode, but it can be quite difficult and may prevent you from using all the features a third-party router provides.
+::
+
+## The Switch
+---
+
+The __switch__, or network switch, is a device that allows multiple devices to connect to the network. It acts as a literal hub, connecting directly to the router or to another switch upstream. It helps avoid overloading the switch ports on your router or relocating devices to another room without running a cable from each one back to the router. Another common use case is to segment multiple networks that are managed by the same router.
+
+There are generally two types of switches:
+- **Unmanaged switches**, the most common. These are plug-and-play: you just plug them in and everything works automatically.
+- **Managed switches**. These offer a configuration interface (via command line or web UI), allowing you to fine-tune routing rules under the control of the router. They are powerful for creating virtual networks between your devices, but usually require more setup time and are less convenient than simple unmanaged switches.
+
+::alert{type="warning"}
+:::list{type="warning"}
+- __Warning:__ Make sure to use a switch with ports that match the speeds supported by your network devices.
+:::
+::
+
+## Cables
+---
+
+Cables are essential components of your network. Depending on their type and category, they can limit the bandwidth between devices, so they must be chosen to match your network's specifications. They also need to be compatible with your devices' ports.
+
+Here’s a quick reference of the most common cable and port standards:
+
+- **RJ45 Gigabit Ethernet 10/100/1000**: The standard RJ45 connector, supporting speeds from 10 Mbps (0.125 MB/s) to 1000 Mbps (125 MB/s)
+- **RJ45 2.5G**: Same connector, supporting speeds up to 2.5 Gbps (312.5 MB/s)
+- **RJ45 5G**: Same connector, supporting speeds up to 5 Gbps (625 MB/s)
+- **RJ45 10GBase-T**: Same connector, supporting speeds up to 10 Gbps (1.25 GB/s)
+- **SFP 1G**: SFP port, typically used for fiber optics, supporting up to 1 Gbps
+- **SFP+ 10G**: Enhanced SFP port, also for fiber, supporting up to 10 Gbps
+
+### Ethernet Cables
+
+These copper cables usually use the standard `RJ45` connector. It's the most common network connector found on routers and switches.
+
+Ethernet cables are divided into categories that define their maximum speed based on distance:
+
+| Speed     | Cable Type | Max Distance |
+|-----------|------------|--------------|
+| 10 Gb/s   | CAT 6A     | 100 m        |
+|           | CAT 6      | 55 m         |
+|           | CAT 5e     | 30 m         |
+| 5 Gb/s    | CAT 6      | 100 m        |
+|           | CAT 5e     | 30 m         |
+| 2.5 Gb/s  | CAT 5e     | 100 m        |
+| 1 Gb/s    | CAT 5e     | 100 m        |
+| 100 Mb/s  | CAT 5      | 100 m        |
+
+Some of these cables are flat, round, shielded (requiring grounding), etc. Choose based on your setup. What matters is that, for example, if you want to connect a device with a 2.5 Gb/s RJ45 port to a 2.5 Gb/s router, you’ll need at least a `CAT 5e` cable.
+
+On the other hand, if your device is limited to 100 Mb/s, a simple `CAT 5` cable will suffice.
+
+Nowadays, in new buildings, it is standard practice to install `CAT 6A` cables inside walls. This way, wall ports are ready to support 10 Gb/s over 100 meters.
+
+---
+
+### Optical Cables
+
+Very thin but fragile, optical cables are increasingly appearing in home networks. It often starts with the fiber cable connecting your ISP’s outlet to your box/router. They have several advantages:
+- Extremely compact
+- Zero electrical consumption (unlike copper, which loses energy as heat)
+- No electromagnetic radiation (no shielding needed, no signal interference)
+- Very high speeds over long distances
+
+For local networking, it's important to understand that several types of fiber cables exist. Their performance depends on both distance and compatibility with the appropriate `transceiver`. Fiber cables connect to your devices' SFP+ ports via a small device called a transceiver, which converts electrical signals to light (and vice versa).
+
+For local networks, the recommended standard is a **multimode OM3 fiber with LC connectors**, paired with a **10G LC SFP+ transceiver**. This setup allows 10 Gb/s connections and is compatible with most devices featuring SFP+ ports.
+
+::alert{type="warning"}
+:::list{type="warning"}
+- __Warning:__ Make sure to use transceivers that are compatible with your devices (routers, switches, or other hardware). There is no universal standard yet, and manufacturers usually specify which brands are supported.
+:::
+::
+
+---
+
+### DAC Cables
+
+These are copper cables with integrated `transceivers`. They allow two SFP/SFP+ ports to communicate over short distances without using fragile fiber or RJ45 adapters. However, they consume more energy due to natural copper loss, which is non-negligible.
+
+---
+
+### SFP+ Transceivers
+
+These let you connect different types of cables to your SFP/SFP+ ports. Variants are available for:
+- Fiber optic
+- DAC
+- RJ45
+
+::alert{type="warning"}
+:::list{type="warning"}
+- RJ45 transceivers consume a lot of energy due to copper signal loss and can generate significant heat. Low-power models (under 2W) exist and are generally rated for longer cables (e.g., 80m instead of 30m). Surprisingly, these are preferred over short-distance models because they generate less heat and consume less energy—making them more compatible with sensitive devices. Using the wrong type can cause network degradation or even outages.
+:::
+::

content/2.general/3.hardware/basics.md

@@ -1,163 +0,0 @@
----
-navigation: true
-title: The Basics
-main:
-  fluid: false
----
-:ellipsis{left=0px width=40rem top=10rem blur=140px}
-# Server Basics
-
-::alert{type="info"}
-🎯 __Objectives:__
-- Understand the fundamentals of server hardware
-::
-
-![hardware](/img/global/hardware.svg)
-
-
-A server is essentially a computer dedicated to specific tasks, designed to remain accessible at all times. Structurally, it's not much different from a regular computer. Depending on its intended use, some components may vary. This article serves as a reference to help you understand the essential components of a server and how their roles adapt based on your needs.
-
-## Motherboard
----
-The motherboard is the foundation of your machine. It's the component that connects all others together. It enables communication between components and interaction with peripherals (keyboard, mouse, etc.). Choose it based on your I/O (Input/Output) needs like USB ports, network ports, speed, etc., and ensure compatibility with the components you plan to install.
-
-Key components connected to the motherboard:
-- CPU
-- RAM
-- Storage (HDD and/or SSD)
-- Optional dedicated GPU
-
-Common consumer motherboard formats:
-- E-ATX: largest
-- ATX: standard
-- Micro-ATX: smaller
-- Mini-ITX: smallest
-
-Larger boards generally offer more ports and features. Pre-built systems might use proprietary formats.
-
-## CPU
----
-<div style="display: flex; align-items: center;">
-  <img src="/img/global/cpu.svg" alt="Image" style="max-width: 25%; max-height:230px; margin-right: 20px;">
-  <p>The CPU (Central Processing Unit) is the computer's calculator. It processes most software tasks. Modern CPUs have multiple cores, often with virtual threads, to better handle workloads. They need to be cooled using either an active cooler (with a fan) or a passive one (fanless), depending on power consumption (watts). Choose your CPU based on how you plan to use the server.</p>
-</div>
-
-::alert{type="warning"}
-:::list{type="warning"}
-- __Caution:__ Ensure third-party coolers are compatible with the CPU socket and always apply thermal paste before installing the cooler.
-:::
-::
-
-Consider:
-- Number of cores (more cores = better multitasking)
-- Clock speed in GHz
-- Power consumption in Watts
-
-For low-power home servers or NAS (non-intensive computing), consider Intel N100/150 (4 cores) or N305/N355 (8 cores)—efficient and low power (ideal for 24/7 uptime).
-
-## RAM
----
-
-<p align="center">
-  <img src="/img/global/ram.svg" alt="Image" style="max-width: 65%;">
-</p>
-
-RAM (Random Access Memory) is fast, temporary memory used by the CPU (and iGPU if applicable) for quick access during execution. It clears periodically and when the machine powers down. Better RAM = better CPU performance.
-
-Comes as sticks installed on the motherboard. Varies by format and generation (currently DDR5).
-
-## GPU
----
-
-The GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) handles graphical, video, and sometimes AI-related processing. In servers, it's useful for media centers (e.g. [Plex](/serveex/media/plex)) and for accelerating AI tasks like facial recognition or photo indexing (e.g. [Immich](/serveex/cloud/immich)).
-
-Choose between:
-- Dedicated GPU with VRAM (via PCIe)
-- iGPU (integrated GPU within the CPU like the N100/N305 series)
-
-### HDD(s)
----
-
-<p align="center">
-  <img src="/img/global/hdd.svg" alt="Image" style="max-width: 50%; margin-right: 20px;">
-</p>
-
-An HDD (Hard Disk Drive) is a traditional data storage device using spinning platters and read/write heads. Though slower due to its mechanical nature, it offers huge capacity (up to 30TB). It's ideal for media files, cloud storage, and archives—where high speed isn't critical.
-
-::alert{type="success"}
-:::list{type="success"}
-- __Tip:__ Use multiple HDDs in [RAID](/general/storage/raid) to enhance performance and redundancy.
-:::
-::
-
-Comes in 3.5" and 2.5" formats; servers usually favor the more reliable 3.5".
-
-### SSD(s)
----
-
-<p align="center">
-  <img src="/img/global/nvme.svg" alt="Image" style="max-width: 50%; margin-right: 20px;">
-</p>
-
-An SSD (Solid State Drive) stores data on memory chips. Unlike RAM, SSDs retain data without power. They’re small, fast (several GB/s), and reliable with no moving parts.
-
-Preferred format: M.2 NVMe—smallest and fastest, now standard.
-
-More expensive than HDDs, but essential for:
-- Operating system
-- Containers like [Docker](/serveex/core/docker)
-- Databases
-- Any fast-access data (apps, websites, etc.)
-
-### Network Card
----
-
-Connects your server to a network (and internet). Has a controller chip and one or more ports, such as:
-- RJ45 Gigabit Ethernet (10/100/1000 Mbps = 125 MB/s)
-- RJ45 2.5G (312.5 MB/s)
-- RJ45 5G (625 MB/s)
-- RJ45 10G Base-T (1.25 GB/s)
-- SFP 1G (fiber, 1 Gbps)
-- SFP+ 10G (fiber, 10 Gbps)
-
-::alert{type="warning"}
-:::list{type="warning"}
-- __Caution:__ Match network gear (router, switch, cables) to your desired speed. For most uses, CAT5E cables are enough; use CAT6A beyond 10 Gbps. Fiber requires additional care (simplex, duplex, transceivers...).
-:::
-::
-
-Most motherboards include a built-in NIC. However, add-on network cards (USB or PCIe) can offer redundancy or better performance.
-
-### Input/Output Ports
----
-
-I/O ports allow communication with external devices (displays, keyboard, mouse, network...). Motherboards typically offer:
-- Ethernet ports
-- USB ports (varied types/speeds)
-- Video ports
-- Audio jacks
-
-Choose a motherboard and expansions based on your I/O needs.
-
-### Power Supply
----
-
-The power supply delivers electricity to your components. It connects to wall power and uses various connectors for motherboard, drives, GPU, etc.
-
-Key specs:
-- Wattage (e.g., 500W)
-- Modularity (fixed vs detachable cables)
-- Efficiency (e.g., 80% = 625W drawn for 500W output)
-
-Formats vary (ATX L to SFX). Rack server PSUs are flatter and specialized.
-
-Rule of thumb: estimate your system's wattage needs and double it, since optimal PSU efficiency is around 50% load.
-
-### Case
----
-
-<div style="display: flex; align-items: center;">
-  <img src="/img/global/case.svg" alt="Image" style="max-width: 25%; max-height:230px; margin-right: 20px;">
-  <p>The case affects cooling, airflow, and compatibility (motherboard, PSU, GPU). It also determines HDD/SSD support and layout. Rackmount cases fit into server cabinets. Choose your case based on hardware needs and space constraints.</p>
-</div>
-