#1
FreedomBox
FreedomBox is a personal server platform that makes it easy to install and manage privacy-respecting apps at home, including chat, VPN, file sync, web hosting, and backups.
FreedomBox is a personal server platform built to help non-experts run common online services from home while keeping data under their control. It provides a web interface to install, configure, and update a curated set of free software applications on supported hardware.
Key Features
- App dashboard for one-click installation and administration of server applications
- Private file sharing and syncing for personal and family use
- Secure communications with decentralized chat and audio/video calling options
- Built-in VPN server for secure remote access to home services and devices
- Privacy-enhancing proxy capabilities for safer browsing on untrusted networks
- Self-hosted web publishing options such as blogs and wikis
- CalDAV/CardDAV-style synchronization for calendars and contacts
- Home-network media sharing and device backup/NAS-style use
Use Cases
- Replace multiple cloud accounts with a single personal server for files, contacts, and publishing
- Provide secure remote access and private networking for traveling or remote work
- Run family or small-group communications and collaboration services with more control over data
Limitations and Considerations
- Best suited to the set of applications packaged/integrated by the project; unsupported apps may require manual administration outside the web UI
- Performance and available features depend on the chosen hardware and installed applications
FreedomBox is a strong choice for individuals and households that want an approachable, privacy-focused way to host essential internet services. It combines a curated app ecosystem with simplified administration to reduce the complexity of running a home server.