Hadi Cherkaoui
Platform Developer apprentice based in Switzerland, passionate about technology and open source. Specializing in Kubernetes, automation, and cloud-native technologies.
Get to Know Me Better
Platform Developer Apprentice
I'm a 16-year-old Platform Developer apprentice based in Switzerland, passionate about technology and open source. I love working with Kubernetes, automation, and managing my home lab setup (Proxmox with Kubernetes).
For me, IT isn't just a career choice - it's something I truly enjoy. Whether I'm writing PowerShell scripts, working with Docker containers, or exploring new technologies, I'm always excited to learn and create. My enthusiasm for Linux and open-source technologies drives me to continuously expand my knowledge.
I'm actively learning ethical hacking and cybersecurity through hands-on practice on TryHackMe, where I tackle real-world security challenges and develop penetration testing skills.
My Focus Areas:
My Daily Driver
Arch Linux
My customized Arch Linux desktop environment with i3 window manager
I made the decision to migrate from Windows to Arch Linux as my daily operating system. This transition represents my commitment to open-source software, customization, and learning the inner workings of my system.
Arch Linux offers me complete control over my computing environment, allowing me to build a minimal, efficient system tailored to my specific needs. The rolling release model ensures I'm always running the latest software without major version upgrades.
The journey wasn't without challenges, but the process taught me valuable skills in system administration, troubleshooting, and the Linux ecosystem. Now I enjoy a lightweight, secure, and highly customized desktop that perfectly suits my workflow.
Key Features of My Setup:
- Customized Arch using kde plasma with kvantum
- Custom shell scripts for automation and workflow enhancement
- Minimalist design focused on performance and efficiency
Skills & Technologies
Open Source
Active Contributor
PowerShell & Linux
Automation & Scripting
Security
System & Network Security
Technical Proficiency
Passionate about technology, from PC building to infrastructure automation. I love working with Linux, containers, and modern DevOps tools while actively contributing to open source projects.
Hobbies & Interests
Gaming
Competitive gaming
Coding Projects
Building personal automation tools
Tech Exploration
Learning new technologies
Home Lab
Managing & improving efficiency
PC Building
Hardware & System Optimization
Open Source
Contributing to projects
Ethical Hacking
Learning cybersecurity through TryHackMe
When I'm not coding or working with technology, I enjoy these activities that help me maintain a balanced lifestyle and bring fresh perspectives to my technical work.
Read more about my hobbiesAutomating Everything
I've built a complete self-hosted automation ecosystem using GitLab and n8n to streamline my entire digital life. From development workflows to smart home management, everything runs automatically.
Self-Hosted GitLab
Complete DevOps platform with CI/CD pipelines, container registry, and project management
n8n Workflow Automation
Powerful workflow automation platform for connecting apps and automating repetitive tasks
FluxCD GitOps
GitOps-driven infrastructure with FluxCD managing Kubernetes and application deployments
What Gets Automated
My automation setup handles everything from code deployment to smart home management. Here's what runs automatically in my digital ecosystem:
- Automated home media server management and content organization
- Smart home integration with custom sensors and notifications
- Automatic checking of new versions of deployed services and updating them
- Development environment provisioning and configuration
- Monitoring and alerting for all self-hosted services
- Automated security updates and system maintenance
🚀 The Result
A fully automated digital life where repetitive tasks are eliminated, systems self-maintain, and I can focus on what matters most - building and creating.
Homelab Network
A fully self-built network infrastructure showcasing enterprise-grade networking at home
View Detailed DocumentationNetwork Architecture
ISP Router (DMZ Mode)
Entry point with DMZ configuration for true passthrough
DIY OpnSense Router
Custom-built firewall with 10Gig NIC for high-speed routing
Managed Switch
10Gig uplink + 8x 2.5Gig ports with VLAN segmentation
Home Network VLAN
Main network for devices
Homelab VLAN
Isolated lab environment
UniFi U7 Lite AP
WiFi 7 access point for wireless connectivity
Key Features
10Gig Backbone
High-speed connectivity throughout the network
VLAN Segmentation
Isolated networks for security and performance
Enterprise Firewall
OpnSense providing advanced security features
WiFi 7 Ready
Latest wireless technology with UniFi management
Scalable Design
Built for future expansion and upgrades
Network Specifications
Featured Projects
Here are some of my recent projects. I'm passionate about building tools that solve real problems and contribute to the open-source community.
Scolx - Student Platform SaaS
Modern SaaS platform for students built with Go backend and Next.js frontend, leveraging AI features and PostgreSQL
Home Kubernetes Cluster
Production-grade enterprise Kubernetes cluster for media, backups, and self-hosted services
Automated Life with n8n & GitLab
Complete automation setup using self-hosted GitLab CI/CD and n8n workflows for daily tasks
What I Build
I focus on creating practical solutions that leverage modern technologies. My projects range from web applications to infrastructure automation and knowledge sharing.
Project Highlights
- Built a self-hostable AI search engine alternative
- Designed and deployed a production-grade Kubernetes cluster at home
- Automated daily workflows using self-hosted GitLab and n8n for complete life automation
Technologies I frequently use:
What I Offer
From PC building to enterprise infrastructure, I provide comprehensive technical services to help individuals and businesses with their technology needs.
PC Building & Tech Support
Custom PC builds, hardware troubleshooting, and technical advice for all your computing needs
- Custom PC builds
- Hardware diagnostics
- Performance optimization
- Technical consultation
Server Setup & Management
Professional server deployment, configuration, and ongoing management for businesses and individuals
- Linux server setup
- Security hardening
- Backup solutions
- Monitoring & maintenance
Cluster & Homelab Solutions
Design and implement Kubernetes clusters, homelabs, and self-hosted infrastructure solutions
- Kubernetes clusters
- Proxmox virtualization
- Network configuration
- Self-hosted services
Game Server Hosting
Custom game server setup and hosting for communities, with full management and support
- Minecraft servers
- Game mod support
- Performance optimization
- 24/7 uptime monitoring
AI Workflow Automation
Create intelligent automation workflows using n8n and AI to streamline your business processes
- n8n workflow design
- AI integration
- Process automation
- Custom integrations
Web & App Development
Full-stack development services for modern web applications and mobile apps
- React/Next.js apps
- Go backends
- Database design
- API development
Need Something Custom?
Don't see exactly what you're looking for? I'm always open to discussing custom projects and unique technical challenges. Reach out through my forum or email to discuss your specific needs.
Get in Touch
Interested in collaboration? Let's connect! Feel free to reach out if you have any questions or would like to work together on a project.
Send a Message
Location
Zurich, Switzerland