Episode 1: Homelab Mac Mini Set Up

This is the first step in my homelab series. Before installing anything, I want to make sure the Mac mini is set up properly for easier daily use.

Configuration

Mac mini

First setup requires a monitor

• You need a monitor connected to finish the initial macOS setup.

Another approach is to use headless HDMI, I don't recommend that if you have no experience using that.

Keyboard connection

• Wireless keyboard: press the power button 3 times to pair it.
• Wired keyboard: just plug it in with the USB-C connector.

Recommended Settings (After boot)

Wi-Fi

Go to: System Settings → Wi-Fi

Scroll to the bottom and set:

• Ask to join hotspots → Automatically

Energy

Go to: Settings → Energy

Set:

• Prevent auto sleep when the display is off → On
• Start up automatically after a power failure → On

These settings help the Mac mini stay available and recover automatically after a power outage.

Optional: Automatic Login

If you want to use the Mac mini without a monitor after the first setup, you can enable automatic login.

Go to: Settings → Users & Groups

Set:

• Automatic login as → choose the administrator or the user you want

Note: If FileVault is enabled, automatic login may not work.
You may need to turn off FileVault encryption first if you want direct access without a screen.

Final Note

These are small changes, but they make the Mac mini much easier to use as a homelab machine.