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Tim Wilkes

Tim Wilkes is a UK-based Enterprise Architect with over 25 years of experience in electronics, Linux, Security, and Unix systems administration.

How to Automatically Backup Kestra to GitLab (Step-by-Step Guide)

Protect your Kestra workflows from data loss with automated Git-based backups. This step-by-step guide shows how to schedule namespace and flow backups to GitLab using built-in plugins, secrets, and cron triggers.

Getting Restarted With Photography: The Essential Gear Beyond the Camera

Getting back into photography means more than just picking up a camera. From protecting your images with reliable backups to editing with free software like Darktable, this guide covers the essential gear—plus a smart tripod tip for cold weather shooting.

How I Repaired My UniFi US-8-150W PoE Switch Using a New Power Supply and 3D Printing

I repaired my failed UniFi US-8-150W PoE switch using a replacement Mean Well power supply and a 3D-printed mount. Here’s how I opened it up, rewired it, fitted the new PSU, and got it working again — plus what I’d do differently next time.

Setting Up Oxidized for Router Backups with Docker Compose and Git

Learn how to set up Oxidized for automated router backups using Docker Compose and Git. This guide walks you through configuring Oxidized on a Raspberry Pi with SSD storage, making it easy to manage network device backups and version control with minimal setup.

Enhancing Firefly III Transaction Categorization Using SearxNG and Node-RED

Enhance Firefly III transaction categorization with Node-RED and SearxNG. Learn how to integrate AI with external search results to automatically assign budgets and categories, improving accuracy for unusual merchants. Step-by-step workflow and SearxNG setup included.

🏠 Keep Your Smart Switches On Automatically with This Home Assistant Blueprint

Never let your smart plugs or switches stay off longer than they should. Automate uptime checks with this dynamic Home Assistant blueprint and keep your smart home running perfectly.

🎄 Transforming the IKEA ENRUM Lantern into a Snowy Christmas Decoration with a Cricut Joy

Turn the IKEA ENRUM lantern into a glowing Christmas decoration using a Cricut Joy. Add frosted snowflake or winter scene decals for a cozy holiday look that shines indoors or out — and nod back to last year’s spooky Halloween lantern.

🧩 Setting Up VLANs in Your Home Lab with UniFi Switches and Access Points

Learn how to set up VLANs in your home lab using UniFi switches and AC Pro access points. Improve network security, organize your IoT and lab devices, and even automate configurations with Ansible and Terraform — all on your existing UniFi gear.

How to Renew GitLab SSL Certificates in a Proxmox LXC with Certbot and Cloudflare DNS

Learn how to renew your GitLab SSL certificate in a Proxmox LXC using Certbot and Cloudflare DNS validation. This guide covers TurnKey Linux, deploy hooks, and automated HTTPS renewal.

Why Every UK Home Should Consider a Dehumidifier: Comfort, Cost Savings & Better Air Quality

A dehumidifier can reduce damp, cut heating bills, improve air quality, and help dry laundry quickly in UK homes. Discover why they’re eco-friendly, bathroom-safe, and ideal for winter—and find top Amazon-recommended models for every household.