Self-hosting has significantly transformed how users manage their online activities, allowing for greater control over device functionalities and reducing reliance on subscription services. By opting for personal storage solutions, many like the author have eliminated costs associated with services such as Microsoft 365 and Google One.
One notable advantage is the ability to replace various browser extensions with self-hosted alternatives. For instance, ad-blocking has been revolutionized through tools like Pi-hole and AdGuard Home, which offer comprehensive ad-blocking capabilities across multiple devices, though they fall short of blocking YouTube ads. This shift reduces dependence on extensions like uBlock Origin, allowing users to enjoy a cleaner browsing experience.
Additionally, managing RSS feeds has been streamlined with solutions like Miniflux, a self-hosted RSS reader. Unlike traditional browser extensions that require individual setups and lack synchronization, Miniflux provides a cohesive experience across devices, enabling users to mark articles as read on any device they access.