If you're planning to download media, check out the Server Wiki. It has guides on setting up all the software to automate the process.

Most Usenet providers offer secure connections so I don't know if it's necessary, but I use a VPN.

Same here. Sorting by hot subscribed in my browser and apps all show this at the top.

I'm seeing the same. My instance was upgraded last night, now the front page reloads everytime I go back. Testing on Firefox on Android, not sure of other setups.