Rebuilding W4DXR: Dual-Theme Architecture with Hugo and Proxmox

After relying on traditional CMS software for a while, I decided it was time to overhaul the site architecture entirely. Running heavy MySQL databases and dealing with constant security patches just to publish technical posts and radio operating logs felt like unnecessary overhead.

Moving to Static Single-Source HTML

I migrated the site to a dedicated, unprivileged LXC container running Ubuntu on Proxmox. Instead of a database, the entire site is now generated from plain Markdown files using Hugo.

What makes this build unique is the dual-template architecture:

  1. Single Source of Truth: Every post is written once as a Markdown file in /content/.
  2. Dual Compilation: A custom build script compiles the content twice simultaneously:
    • /new/ – A modern dark-mode layout featuring interactive background effects, operating stats, and responsive CSS grids.
    • /old/ – A pure 1990s Web 1.0 Netscape view complete with ASCII header banners, table bounds, and classic badges.
  3. Automated User Routing: Server-side Nginx rules detect vintage browsers and legacy operating systems to automatically route retro systems to /old/ while giving modern devices the sleek /new/ interface—complete with a manual switch link in both headers.

What’s Coming Next

I’ll be using this space to document ongoing projects, including:

  • HF Digital Operations: Logging FT8 contacts across the 17m, 40m, and 80m bands.
  • Homebrew Antennas: Element tuning and choke balun construction for multi-band wire dipoles.
  • Vintage Computer Restorations: Slot 1 Pentium II hardware builds and period PCI expansion testing.
  • Homelab Administration: Proxmox LXC configurations, OPNsense routing, and network automation scripts.

73s, and thanks for stopping by!