My thoughts after reading the article is that the author compares learning networks and computers isolated on a LAN vs. in the modern world of connected SaaS and the like. That the subject matter is different, less exciting.

It's like comparing a company in its startup phase to its soulless corporate behemoth phase.

And, it's a tailscale blog so it segues to their business.

The meaning probably includes having at least a few computers talking to each other at home, instead of the sad clone army of NATed web browsers.