Brian Latchman

Home Lab Setup and Use Cases

I've transformed an old Mac desktop and a Beelink Mini S12 Pro mini PC into a powerful home lab environment. The Mac server functions as a media server, personal NAS, and cybersecurity lab. Using the arr stack alongside Plex, I manage and stream media efficiently. I utilize a Docker Compose file to orchestrate and deploy these services seamlessly. Torrents are securely handled through a VPN to ensure privacy and security. The Beelink Mini S12 Pro is integrated into my home lab for additional testing and experimentation, allowing me to expand my capabilities and explore new technologies.

The home lab runs various cybersecurity tools and features network segmentation with multiple virtual machines, serving as a testing ground for penetration testing exercises using my Flipper Zero device.

Skills Demonstrated: Home lab setup, media server configuration, NAS management, Docker Compose, VPN configuration, arr stack implementation, network segmentation, virtualization, penetration testing, hardware integration.

Cybersecurity Tools and Penetration Testing Projects

Utilizing the Flipper Zero and the Wi-Fi Devboard, I've conducted various penetration testing projects. These include Wi-Fi network analysis and RFID hacking simulations. I've documented case studies and tutorials on specific tasks to showcase my practical skills in cybersecurity.

Skills Demonstrated: Penetration testing, Wi-Fi network analysis, RFID hacking, Flipper Zero utilization.

Custom Discord Bot Development

I've developed a custom Discord bot with functionalities like rotating status messages and a /sb command for sending images. The bot enhances user engagement and provides utility within Discord servers.

Code Snippet:

    # Import necessary modules
    import discord
    from discord.ext import commands, tasks
    import os
    import random

    bot = commands.Bot(command_prefix='!', intents=discord.Intents.all())

    # List of status messages
    statuses = ["Playing Chess", "Listening to Music", "Coding in Python", "Chatting with Users"]

    @bot.event
    async def on_ready():
        print("Bot is up and ready!")
        change_status.start()

    # Rotate status messages every 5 seconds
    @tasks.loop(seconds=5)
    async def change_status():
        await bot.change_presence(activity=discord.Game(random.choice(statuses)))

    # /sb command to send a random image
    @bot.tree.command(name="sb")
    async def send_image(interaction: discord.Interaction):
        image_dir = 'images'
        images = os.listdir(image_dir)
        if not images:
            await interaction.response.send_message('No images found.', ephemeral=True)
            return

        image_file = random.choice(images)
        image_path = os.path.join(image_dir, image_file)
        await interaction.response.send_message(file=discord.File(image_path))

    # !poll command to create a poll
    @bot.command()
    async def poll(ctx, question, option1=None, option2=None):
        if option1 is None and option2 is None:
            message = await ctx.send(f"**New poll:** {question}\n✅ = Yes\n❌ = No")
        else:
            message = await ctx.send(f"**New poll:** {question}\n✅ = {option1}\n❌ = {option2}")
        await message.add_reaction('✅')
        await message.add_reaction('❌')

    # Run the bot with your token
    bot.run('YOUR_BOT_TOKEN')
                

You can read more about the bot's features and implementation in the documentation.

Skills Demonstrated: Python programming, Discord API, bot development, automation.

GL.iNet GL-AXT1800 Router Configuration

I've utilized the GL.iNet GL-AXT1800 router for advanced networking tasks, including setting up VPNs, configuring firewall rules, and implementing other security configurations to enhance my home network's security. Additionally, I've configured the router to perform DNS sinkholing, which was previously handled by my home server. This has centralized my network security and improved performance.

Skills Demonstrated: Advanced router configuration, VPN setup, firewall management, DNS sinkholing, network security enhancement.

Website Development and Coding

I designed and coded this portfolio website from scratch to showcase my skills and projects in cybersecurity and development. The site features responsive design, smooth scrolling navigation, and a clean, user-friendly interface.

Skills Demonstrated: HTML, CSS, JavaScript, responsive web design, UI/UX design.