Old computers that are idle at home can be a headache as they can’t be sold for a good price and their performance doesn’t meet current demands. However, by following these steps, you can make them useful again, earn extra income, and serve as a home server:
- Install a Lightweight Linux System: Choose a suitable operating system like Ubuntu or CentOS based on personal preference.
- Configure Network Connection:
- Try to apply for a public IPv4 address (which may be difficult to obtain in some regions).
- Alternatively, enable IPv6 support on your modem to allow external access to this computer.
- Set Up Dynamic Domain Name Resolution: Use a DDNS service (recommended ddns-go tool) to ensure stable access even if the IP changes.
- Install Baota Panel: This makes it easier to manage and deploy applications, suitable for beginners.
- Deploy CDN Projects: Join platforms like “Sparrow Cloud” to earn income by contributing storage space and bandwidth. This not only makes the old computer useful but also brings economic returns. I hope this solution helps you!
1. Install Ubuntu
Ubuntu server download link:
https://ubuntu.com/download/server
USB drive creation tool download link:
https://www.ventoy.net/cn/download.html
Create a bootable USB drive, install the Ubuntu system, and refer to the installation tutorial at the following link:
https://blog.csdn.net/qianhouhuan/article/details/140150789
2. After Successful Installation, Install Baota Panel
The installation command is as follows:
wget -O install_panel.sh https://download.bt.cn/install/install_panel.sh && sudo bash install_panel.sh ed8484becAfter successful installation, install Docker, databases, etc.
At this point, the local server has been set up.
3. Install ddns-go to Resolve Your Domain Name
Home broadband generally defaults to having public IPv6, and in some regions, you can apply for a public IPv4 from your local operator. Set it up as follows:
https://mp.weixin.qq.com/s/mj3v6ytaJvVZjlBRV-6rmQ
Use Docker to install ddns-go, open an SSH tool to connect to your server, and use the following command to install:
docker run -d --name ddns-go --restart=always --net=host -v /opt/ddns-go:/root jeessy/ddns-goAfter successful installation, enter your domain name + 9876 in the browser to access the ddns-go page.
Register a Cloudflare account, bind your domain, obtain an API key, and resolve your domain name. Detailed operations can be found at the following tutorial link:
https://post.smzdm.com/p/a3xpz3z7/
Now, your server can be accessed from anywhere using your domain name.
4. Make Your Server Earn Money
Install Sparrow Cloud PCDN, registration link:
Execute the following command in the server’s SSH window:
wget https://download.niulinkcloud.com/init/start-smallbox-m-v1.sh
bash start-smallbox-m-v1.shWait until you see the following QR code, use the mini-program to scan and bind it.
Next, just wait for it to automatically earn money for you. Here’s a glimpse of my daily earnings:
In this way, you not only have a server but also save a lot of expenses, achieving multiple benefits. Why not take action!!!
Friends, are you excited? Hurry up and make use of your unused old laptops to let them shine again. Everyone is welcome to join the group for communication and explore more interesting ways to play.
