💡 Great suggestion! I’ve been looking into ASUS NUCs 👉 ASUS Mini PCs. They’re powerful and upgradable, but…
🔒 Privacy is a concern:
Most Intel and AMD CPUs include:
⚙️ Intel ME / AMT
🛡️ AMD PSP
These allow remote management even when the device is off, which isn't ideal if you're aiming for full control.
🧠 That’s why I’m seriously considering ARM-based devices:
✅ No ME/PSP
✅ Lower power consumption
✅ Simpler, more open design
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I came across this project previously, because I had the same concerns as you.
It is a bit beyond my skill level, but I still bought the gear needed in case I wanted to try it in the future.
If you ever try it, post back your results!

GitHub
GitHub - corna/me_cleaner: Tool for partial deblobbing of Intel ME/TXE firmware images
Tool for partial deblobbing of Intel ME/TXE firmware images - corna/me_cleaner
I just happened to come across this note which led me to look into the libreboot FAQ that says the SPI flasher CH341A unmodified can damage the chip that's mentioned in the docs of the github I posted in my previous note.
I'm trying to determine if the article's claims of removing ME/PSP are accurate if using libreboot. I think it might be bypassing it rather than removing or disabling it which can only be done though a flash or physical modification.
Cannot stress enough that you should use a computer exclusively dedicated to #Bitcoin and install #Libreboot open source BIOS on it: I have written a step-by-step guide on my website (below the link).
My top laptop recommendation is the Lenovo ThinkPad T480s, but older models like the T430 or X230 also work great!
https://btcselfcustody.io/docs/libreboot
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