My homelab setup features used corporate mini-PCs with 7th/8th gen Intel i5 for low power and noise. I recommend Proxmox for virtualization and automation with Ansible, ensuring DNS/DHCP integration. For a NAS, build using an Asrock J5040 mini-ITX board in a Node 304 case with Unraid OS. By integrating these, you achieve efficient and versatile home servers.