I have used Docker Swarm in my homelab for years without big issues, you just have to be aware of its limitations. For example, I use SWAG for my reverse proxy and it works better as a compose deployment on an individual docker node because then it can identify incoming IPs. All of the backend communication runs on internal networks, which helps isolate them.

I like using Swarm at home because it is simple and easy while providing good scalability and security (yes, I know podman would be more secure, but I haven’t taken that plunge yet).

That being said, Docker Swarm isn’t used in the industry much. So if you are looking to expand on your IT skills, K8s is the way.