NodeBB
A self-hosted Communication & Social app you can run on your own server.
With NodeBB, you get a self-hosted communication platform that lives on your own server, under your rules. Because it runs on infrastructure you control, your data stays with you and there is no subscription required to keep using it.
Development happens in the open on GitHub; the repository has collected 15.2K stars so far. Repository activity was last recorded on Sep 11, 2026, and the project is classed as actively maintained in our snapshot.
Before you switch
Communication tools only work if your people can reach them. Check guest access, mobile apps, and federation or bridging support before migrating a community. Self-hosting gives you the data and the rules, but someone has to own updates and moderation.
Like every project listed on SelfHosted, NodeBB is developed in the open — you can read the code, follow development, and even contribute. Check the system requirements and the project’s own documentation linked on this page before installing.