Skip to main content
Every Node you add with the wizard is bound to one StackKit and has one role in it. The role tells Techstack what the Node is for. The StackKit foundation tells it which kit definition the Node follows.

​
Foundation Node

The foundation Node is the first and main Node of a StackKit. It runs the core of that StackKit. Each StackKit has exactly one foundation Node. You create a foundation Node when you set up your first homelab, or when you choose New StackKit / main Node while adding a Node. You cannot add a second foundation Node to an existing StackKit; a second main Node always starts a new StackKit.

​
Worker Node

A worker Node adds computing power to an existing StackKit. The StackKit can place services on it. Choose Worker Node when you add a second machine to spread the load, for example a spare mini PC next to your first server. A worker Node joins the StackKit you add it to and uses that StackKit’s foundation.

​
Storage Node

A storage Node is an additional Node intended for services that need a lot of disk space, such as photos, files, or media. Choose Storage Node when the machine’s main strength is its disks. Like a worker Node, a storage Node joins an existing StackKit and uses its foundation.

​
StackKit foundation

A StackKit foundation is the kit definition a StackKit is built on. Techstack offers two: Every Node is bound to one foundation. If you are not sure which kit fits, read Choosing a kit.

​
Joining an existing StackKit

Choose Worker or storage for this StackKit when the new Node should help a StackKit you already run. The Node then:
  • takes the foundation of that StackKit; you do not choose it again;
  • keeps your existing access, people, and sign-in;
  • becomes a Worker Node or a Storage Node. The foundation role is not offered here, because the StackKit already has its main Node.

​
Starting a new StackKit

Choose New StackKit / main Node when the new machine should run its own StackKit inside the same homelab. The Node becomes the foundation Node of that new StackKit, and you choose its foundation. A common setup is two StackKits in one homelab: a Basement Kit on hardware at home and a Cloud Kit on a VPS. Each has its own main Node. Both can be reached from anywhere through your own domain or a *.kombify.me address; see kombify.me.