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> The problem is that normal people no longer have a machine at home that’s always left on.

They do, their router. The better models are half a home server anyway. They have wifi, USB for storage, do voip, have direct internet access (no NAT issues!). They would be an ideal platform for home automation.

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Except that they usually don't own it, they rent it from the ISP.

I think the concept of home server - some box you buy separately from Internet connection - is a concept that needs more marketing, until it becomes normalized.

Microsoft used to make Windows Home Server, a server OS with a simplified UI on top. Shame it didn't take off and they killed it.

No they rent the modem from their ISP.

IME, it's typically an integrated router and cable modem.

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