this post was submitted on 24 Jan 2024
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want to get started but finding the technical side really overwhelming (sh.itjust.works)
submitted 9 months ago by [email protected] to c/[email protected]
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I'd really like to get started with this stuff but finding the technical requirement exhausting.

Trying to install privoxyvpn- "simply add the proxy to your browser and ensure the configuration is correct" (no help as to what this means, or how to do it and following the basic instructions just renders my browser unable to connect - googling the error message gives me replies like "simply make sure you read the logs" (no description of how to get to the logs or how to read them)

hearing I need a proxy and a reverse proxy, install SWAG — "first, point the A name at your server and the CNAME at the A and then install the SSL certificate - but be sure to pick between directories and subdomains if you have fewer than 20 domains in your account."

Like what the fuck does any of this mean?

Then I hear if I have a proxy it might interfere with the reverse proxy and both might interfere with the VPN and vice versa.

How does one even get started?

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[–] [email protected] 105 points 9 months ago* (last edited 9 months ago) (21 children)

OK, so, I attempted to bring some clarity to this discussion that seems like it's all over the place in terms of methodology and difficulty. Here is a breakdown as well as some instructions that should hopefully help OP out.

  1. Running VPN on Router (suggested by ruplicant):

    • Veracity: Valid. Running a VPN on the router secures all devices on the network.
    • Complexity: High for a beginner. Requires a compatible router and understanding of router firmware.
    • Suitability for Beginners: Not ideal due to the technical complexity.

  2. Setting Up Media Server on Raspberry Pi (suggested by ruplicant):

    • Veracity: Valid. Raspberry Pi can effectively run media servers like Plex or Jellyfin.
    • Complexity: Moderate. It requires some technical know-how for setup and maintenance.
    • Suitability for Beginners: Moderate. Good for those with some technical background.

  3. Standard Computer Setup with Torrent Client and VLC (suggested by send_me_your_ink):

    • Veracity: Valid. This is a common method for downloading and viewing content.
    • Complexity: Low. Easy to set up and use.
    • Suitability for Beginners: High. Straightforward and less technically demanding.

  4. Using Plex Over Jellyfin (suggested by Reverendender):

    • Veracity: Subjective. Both are valid, but Plex is often seen as more user-friendly.
    • Complexity: Low for Plex, moderate for Jellyfin.
    • Suitability for Beginners: Plex is more suitable due to its ease of use.

Based on this analysis, for a beginner user, the most straightforward and effective approach would be to use a standard computer setup with a VPN, a torrent client, and VLC media player for streaming. This setup minimizes technical complexity while providing a good balance of privacy and ease of use.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Beginners:

1. Set Up a VPN on Your Computer:

  • Choose a reputable VPN service (like Mullvad or ProtonVPN).
  • Download and install the VPN software on your computer.
  • Follow the software's instructions to connect to a VPN server.

2. Install a Torrent Client:

  • Download a user-friendly torrent client (e.g., qBittorrent, uTorrent).
  • Install the torrent client on your computer.
  • Configure the settings for privacy (like enabling a kill switch, if available).

3. Download and Install VLC Media Player:

  • Download VLC from its official website.
  • Install VLC, following the setup wizard.

4. Download Content:

  • Use the torrent client to find and download content.
  • Ensure your VPN is active whenever you are downloading.

5. Stream Content to Your TV:

  • If your TV supports casting (like with Chromecast), use VLC's streaming feature to cast content to your TV.
  • Alternatively, connect your computer to the TV via HDMI for direct playback.

6. Practice Good Security Habits:

  • Always keep your VPN active when downloading or streaming content.
  • Regularly update your software (VPN, torrent client, VLC) for security.

7. Optional: Explore Advanced Configurations Later:

  • As you become more comfortable, you might explore setting up a media server like Plex for a more integrated experience.
[–] [email protected] 2 points 9 months ago (1 children)

Great post, thanks for the effort!

[–] [email protected] 2 points 9 months ago

Maybe we can put together a wiki or something. No idea who the mods are though.

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