Mac mini LLM Lab

Turn a Mac mini into a low-noise, always-on local AI appliance.

System Setup

1. Update macOS and Xcode command line tools.
2. Install Homebrew and core packages (tmux, htop, ollama).
3. Enable automatic login and restart-after-power-failure.
4. Configure Tailscale or WireGuard for remote access.

Reliability Checklist

• Keep device on wired Ethernet.
• Use UPS for power protection.
• Schedule weekly reboot window.
• Add launchd service for Ollama auto-start.

Security Checklist

• Disable unnecessary sharing services.
• Enforce FileVault and strong local admin password.
• Restrict SSH to key-based auth only.

Related Skills

• ollama-stack - Local inference software stack
• ssh-configuration - Secure remote shell access