Jacob Thomas

Linux & Homelab Enthusiast | Incoming Cybersecurity Student at Oxford Brookes | Python | ISC2 CC Candidate

Bracknell, England, United Kingdom

About

Incoming Cybersecurity student at Oxford Brookes University with a background in systems administration, programming, and network security. I prefer building and running real systems over learning concepts in isolation. I am focused on bridging the gap between academic theory and practical, hands-on security operations. TECHNICAL TOOLKIT - Certifications: ISC2 Certified in Cybersecurity (CC) - Candidate - Languages: Python (6+ years), C, PowerShell - Networking & Systems: Linux (Server/Desktop), WireGuard VPN, System Hardening - Practical Security: Hack The Box (Network enumeration & fuzzing) PROJECTS & RECENT WORK Homelab & Infrastructure: Repurposed a Ryzen-based system into a dedicated game server for performance tuning, resource optimisation, and high availability. Configured a WireGuard VPN to study secure remote access mechanisms in practice. Computer Science NEA: Designed and built a Python-based WiFi mapping and safeguarding tool that generates structured reports. Overcame usability barriers by engineering an automated LaTeX PDF reporting component to translate complex spatial data into formal write-ups for non-technical stakeholders. LEADERSHIP & EDUCATION Planned and delivered a technical lesson on Python variable scope and functions to a GCSE Computer Science class. I am looking to connect with UK cybersecurity professionals, SOC analysts, and network engineers as I begin my NCSC-certified degree this autumn.

Experience

  • Personal project (England, United Kingdom)
    • Game Server Administrator
      Oct 2023 - Present · 2 yrs 10 mos

      Tuned server configuration for performance and reliability, including JVM settings, plugin/datapack choices and scheduled maintenance. Considered energy efficiency when configuring hardware and software, balancing performance with power usage. Managed basic networking tasks such as port forwarding and remote access, and handled backups and updates to minimise downtime.

    • Homelab & Self-Hosted Services
      Sep 2023 - Present · 2 yrs 11 mos

      Set up and maintained a small homelab environment using an older desktop system to explore Linux, networking and basic system administration. Configured and tested a WireGuard VPN to understand secure remote access, key management and basic firewall considerations. Experimented with running virtual machines to separate services and test different operating systems. Monitored resource usage and adjusted configurations with a focus on stable performance and sensible power consumption.

    • PC Builder & Informal IT Support
      Sep 2017 - Present · 8 yrs 11 mos

      Built a modern desktop PC from new components, including selection, compatibility checking and operating system installation. Assisted friends with diagnosing and resolving Windows issues and failed graphics cards, from initial troubleshooting to practical fixes. Advised on basic hardware choices and upgrades based on budget and performance requirements. Used these experiences to deepen understanding of how hardware, operating systems and drivers interact.

  • Student Developer – OCR Computer Science NEA at Edgbarrow School, Crowthorne
    Jun 2025 - Apr 2026 · 11 mos

    Designed a WiFi mapping and safeguarding support tool as part of the OCR A level Computer Science NEA. Planned and implemented a location tagging system that balances usability with flexibility, settling on a dropdown-based interface after exploring more complex options. Wrote detailed pseudocode and algorithms for an automated LaTeX PDF reporting component to generate consistent, professional reports from collected data. Documented design decisions, data structures and user workflows to support future implementation and maintenance.