Mega

Best Self Hosted Alternatives to Mega

A curated collection of the 19 best self hosted alternatives to Mega.

MEGA is a cloud storage and file-hosting service providing end-to-end encrypted file sync, backup, sharing, and collaboration tools for individuals and businesses.

Alternatives List

#1
Syncthing

Syncthing

Open-source, secure, peer-to-peer file sync that keeps folders identical across devices without a central cloud server.

Syncthing screenshot

Syncthing is a continuous file synchronization tool that keeps selected folders in sync between two or more devices. It uses a peer-to-peer model (no mandatory central server), focusing on privacy, resiliency, and cross-platform support for desktops, servers, and mobile devices.

Key Features

  • Peer-to-peer folder synchronization between trusted devices (device IDs) without relying on a central storage provider
  • Encrypted transport (TLS) and device authentication via cryptographic device identities
  • Web-based GUI for configuration/monitoring plus a REST API and event stream for automation/monitoring integrations
  • NAT traversal and relay support to connect devices across networks (global discovery and optional relay usage)
  • Versioning options for deleted/overwritten files (simple, staggered, trash can, external)
  • Per-folder controls: ignore patterns, file/folder permissions handling, rescan intervals, selective folder sharing
  • Cross-platform binaries and packaging for common OSes; runs well on headless servers

Use Cases

  • Sync a “working files” directory between a laptop and a home server without using Dropbox/Drive
  • Keep a replicated copy of important folders across multiple machines as a lightweight redundancy layer
  • Maintain shared folders between a small number of trusted devices (e.g., family/workstations)

Limitations and Considerations

  • It is not a multi-user collaboration/groupware platform; sharing is based on explicitly trusted device pairs
  • Conflicts can occur with concurrent edits; Syncthing creates conflict copies rather than merging content

Syncthing fits users who want direct device-to-device synchronization with strong transport security and operational transparency. It’s especially useful when you want cloud-like syncing behavior while keeping storage and control on your own devices.

78.9kstars
4.9kforks
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#2
MinIO

MinIO

Self-hosted, S3-compatible object storage server for cloud-native workloads with replication, versioning, encryption, and Kubernetes-friendly deployment.

MinIO screenshot

MinIO is an open-source object storage server designed for high-performance, cloud-native and on-prem deployments. It implements an Amazon S3-compatible API, enabling applications and tools built for S3 to use MinIO as a drop-in storage backend.

Key Features

  • Amazon S3-compatible API for object storage (buckets, objects, multipart upload, presigned URLs)
  • Distributed/scale-out deployments for high availability and performance
  • Erasure coding for data protection and efficient storage utilization
  • Bucket and object versioning support
  • Replication capabilities (commonly used for site-to-site and disaster recovery scenarios)
  • Server-side encryption support (SSE) and TLS for in-transit protection
  • Identity and access management features such as policies and access keys
  • Event notifications/hooks for integrating with external systems (e.g., message queues/webhooks)

Use Cases

  • Private S3-compatible storage for applications, backups, and archives
  • Storage layer for Kubernetes and cloud-native platforms needing S3 APIs
  • Log, media, and dataset storage for analytics/ML pipelines

Limitations and Considerations

  • Object storage semantics differ from POSIX filesystems; applications may require S3-native integration
  • Distributed deployments require careful planning for networking, disk layout, and operational monitoring
  • Some advanced enterprise capabilities may depend on MinIO’s broader ecosystem and deployment choices

MinIO is commonly used to replace managed object storage when organizations need full control over data location, performance tuning, and on-prem or edge deployments. Its S3 compatibility makes it suitable for integrating with a wide range of existing tools and software that already support S3.

59.6kstars
6.9kforks
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#3
copyparty

copyparty

A lightweight, portable web-based file server with uploads, WebDAV, search, and optional media indexing—designed to run anywhere with minimal dependencies.

copyparty screenshot

copyparty is a lightweight, portable file server you can run from a single folder to share, browse, and upload files over HTTP. It focuses on being easy to deploy while still offering power-user features like WebDAV, indexing, and flexible access controls.

Key Features

  • Web UI for browsing, downloading, and uploading files (including drag-and-drop)
  • WebDAV support for mounting as a network drive and syncing with WebDAV clients
  • Share links and directory publishing with configurable permissions
  • User authentication and per-path access control (read/write/admin-style rules)
  • Optional indexing for faster browsing/search and media-oriented views (e.g., galleries)
  • Single-binary / single-folder style deployment with cross-platform support
  • Command-line configuration with extensive runtime options (ports, bind, users, perms)

Use Cases

  • Quickly share files on a LAN/Wi‑Fi network without setting up a full NAS stack
  • Provide a WebDAV endpoint for lightweight file access from desktops/mobile clients
  • Host a simple personal file drop/upload area for a team, event, or temporary project

Limitations and Considerations

  • Feature set is optimized for lightweight file serving; it is not a full sync platform like Dropbox/Drive.
  • Some advanced capabilities (indexing/media features) may require extra configuration depending on usage.

copyparty is a good fit when you want a small, fast file server that can be started quickly and still supports structured access control and WebDAV. It’s commonly used for ad-hoc sharing, home-lab file serving, and lightweight team file drop scenarios.

40.5kstars
1.7kforks
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#4
Nextcloud

Nextcloud

Open-source, self-hosted content collaboration: file sync & share, groupware, chat, and optional office collaboration with strong admin and compliance controls.

Nextcloud screenshot

Nextcloud is an open-source, self-hosted content collaboration platform centered on secure file sync and sharing, with an extensible app ecosystem for groupware and teamwork. It provides a web interface, desktop/mobile clients, and enterprise-grade administration features so organizations can keep data on their own infrastructure.

Key Features:

  • File sync & share with web UI plus desktop/mobile clients
  • Sharing controls (public links, passwords, expiration, permissions)
  • Versioning, recycle bin, and file locking to reduce conflicts
  • Extensible “Apps” ecosystem (Calendar/Contacts, Talk, Forms, etc.)
  • WebDAV support and external storage backends (e.g., S3-compatible, SMB/CIFS)
  • User/group management and fine-grained access control
  • Integration options such as SSO/SAML/OIDC via apps and LDAP/AD via integration
  • Server-side encryption options and security hardening features (configurable)

Use Cases:

  • Replace public cloud drives (e.g., Dropbox/Google Drive) with an on-prem/private cloud
  • Organization-wide file collaboration with controlled external sharing
  • Internal “digital workplace” combining files, chat/video (Talk), and groupware apps

Limitations and Considerations:

  • Performance and scalability depend heavily on database, caching, and storage setup
  • Some capabilities (office collaboration, SSO, advanced security) rely on additional apps/services
  • Requires ongoing maintenance (updates, backups, monitoring) like any self-hosted platform

Nextcloud is typically used as a private cloud foundation for file collaboration and related teamwork apps. Its modular architecture and broad integration options make it adaptable, but a well-sized deployment and proper tuning are important for best results.

33.8kstars
4.7kforks
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#5
File Browser

File Browser

Web file manager for browsing, uploading, downloading, sharing, and managing files with per-user permissions, optional authentication, and a JSON/CLI-driven configuration.

File Browser screenshot

File Browser is a lightweight web application that lets you manage files on a server from a browser. It provides a familiar file-manager UI for browsing, uploading/downloading, editing, renaming, and organizing content within configurable root directories, with optional multi-user access controls.

Key Features

  • Web UI for browsing, searching, previewing, uploading, downloading, renaming, moving, copying, and deleting files/folders
  • User management with per-user scopes (root paths) and permission controls (read/write/admin)
  • Shareable links for files/folders (configurable behavior) for simple distribution
  • Built-in file editing in the browser (useful for config files, notes, small text assets)
  • Optional authentication modes and reverse-proxy friendly deployment
  • Single-binary server with JSON configuration and a command-line interface for setup/admin tasks

Use Cases

  • Provide a simple “web drive” to access server files from anywhere
  • Manage content directories for small websites, media folders, or NAS-like shares
  • Share files/folders with teammates or clients via generated links

Limitations and Considerations

  • Not designed as a full sync client ecosystem (no native desktop/mobile sync like Drive/Dropbox)
  • Large-scale collaboration features (real-time editing, office docs) are out of scope

File Browser fits best when you want a fast, minimal web file manager that is easy to deploy and administer. It’s commonly used as a lightweight alternative to cloud drives for server-side file access and basic sharing.

32.8kstars
3.6kforks
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#6
Cloudreve

Cloudreve

Cloudreve is a self-hosted cloud storage and file sharing platform with a web UI, multi-user management, and support for local, S3, and other storage backends.

Cloudreve screenshot

Cloudreve is a self-hosted cloud storage and file management platform that provides a web-based drive experience for individuals and teams. It focuses on flexible storage backends, user/group management, and link-based sharing so you can run a “personal cloud” on your own infrastructure.

Key Features

  • Web-based file manager with uploads/downloads, folder browsing, and search
  • Multi-user support with user/group management and permission controls
  • Link sharing for files/folders (commonly including expiration and access control options)
  • Multiple storage backends (commonly including local storage and S3-compatible object storage)
  • WebDAV support for mounting the storage as a network drive in desktop/mobile clients
  • Admin dashboard for configuration, storage policies, and basic system management
  • Extensible deployment options (commonly distributed as a single binary and via containers)

Use Cases

  • Replace hosted personal cloud drives for private file storage and sharing
  • Team file drop/share portal with controlled access and expiring links
  • Front-end gateway that unifies multiple storage backends under one web UI

Limitations and Considerations

  • Some advanced collaboration features (real-time co-editing) generally require external office suites/integrations rather than being built-in

Cloudreve is a practical choice when you want a modern “cloud drive” experience with strong storage-backend flexibility and standard access methods like WebDAV. It fits both personal and small-team deployments where file sharing and centralized management are the primary needs.

26.5kstars
3.8kforks
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#7
Seafile

Seafile

Self-hosted file sync and sharing platform with libraries, fine-grained permissions, web/mobile clients, versioning, and optional end-to-end encryption.

Seafile screenshot

Seafile is a file sync and sharing platform designed for teams and organizations that need fast synchronization, reliable collaboration, and strong control over access to data. It organizes content into “libraries”, supports cross-platform clients, and provides web-based file management with sharing and auditing features.

Key Features

  • Library-based syncing with selective sync and on-demand download (client dependent)
  • File sharing via links and internal sharing with permission controls
  • File versioning and restore, including history for libraries/files
  • Client-side encryption option for libraries (end-to-end encrypted libraries)
  • Web interface for browsing, uploading, previewing, and managing libraries
  • User/group management and role-based permissions for shared libraries
  • Audit and activity logs for tracking access and changes (edition dependent)
  • WebDAV access for integrating with desktop apps and workflows
  • APIs and integrations for automation and custom clients

Use Cases

  • Team file collaboration replacing consumer cloud drives with tighter control
  • Secure document distribution with expiring share links and permissions
  • Central file sync across desktops and mobile devices with version recovery

Limitations and Considerations

  • Some enterprise features (e.g., advanced auditing/administration) may be edition- or license-dependent.
  • End-to-end encrypted libraries can limit server-side features such as full-text indexing/preview depending on client capabilities.

Seafile is a strong fit for organizations prioritizing efficient sync, structured sharing via libraries, and optional end-to-end encryption. With multiple access methods (web, desktop/mobile clients, WebDAV, API), it can serve both end users and integration-heavy environments.

14.2kstars
1.6kforks
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#8
Filestash

Filestash

Web-based file manager that connects to existing storage (SFTP, WebDAV, S3, SMB, FTP) with sharing links, previews, and optional collaborative editing.

Filestash screenshot

Filestash is a web-based file manager that lets you browse, upload, download, preview, and share files from many existing backends (such as SFTP, WebDAV, S3-compatible object storage, FTP, and SMB). It is designed as a single, user-friendly web UI in front of heterogeneous storage systems, with optional capabilities like in-browser editing and access control.

Key Features

  • Connects to multiple storage backends (commonly including SFTP, FTP/FTPS, WebDAV, SMB, and S3-compatible object storage)
  • Modern web file manager UI: folder navigation, search, uploads, downloads, rename/move/copy, and bulk actions
  • File previews for common formats (images, video/audio in-browser when supported, text, PDFs)
  • Share functionality (public/shared links) and access controls depending on backend and configuration
  • Optional online editing and collaborative editing via integrations (e.g., OnlyOffice)
  • Authentication options and configuration for multi-user environments
  • Runs as a single web app (often deployed via Docker) acting as a gateway to existing storage

Use Cases

  • Provide a browser-based UI for SFTP-only servers to non-technical users
  • Unified access portal for mixed storage (e.g., S3 + SMB + WebDAV) inside an organization
  • Lightweight alternative to “cloud drive” UIs to browse and share files without migrating storage

Limitations and Considerations

  • Feature depth (permissions, versioning, advanced sharing) depends on the underlying storage backend and configured connectors
  • Some advanced capabilities (e.g., office-suite collaboration) require external services/integrations

Filestash is well-suited when you already have storage in place and want a clean web interface, previews, and convenient sharing on top. Its connector-based approach makes it practical for teams managing multiple protocols and storage systems without forcing data migration.

13.4kstars
946forks
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#9
SFTPGo

SFTPGo

Self-hosted SFTP/FTP/WebDAV server with web admin, virtual users, storage backends, and auditing for secure file exchange and managed file transfer workflows.

SFTPGo screenshot

SFTPGo is a configurable file transfer server focused on secure managed file transfer for teams and applications. It provides virtual users, fine-grained permissions, and multiple supported protocols so you can expose a controlled file exchange endpoint without giving shell access.

Key Features

  • Supports multiple protocols: SFTP, FTP/S (FTPS), WebDAV, and HTTP/S file sharing endpoints
  • Web-based administration UI plus a REST API for automation and provisioning
  • Virtual users with per-user home directories, quotas, bandwidth limits, and granular permissions
  • Pluggable storage backends (local filesystem and cloud/object storage backends supported by the project)
  • Key-based and password authentication; SSH host keys and TLS configuration for secure transport
  • Auditing/visibility features such as logs and user activity tracking for compliance needs
  • Event-driven extensibility (hooks/notifications) for integrating with external systems and workflows

Use Cases

  • Provide a managed SFTP/FTPS dropbox for partners/vendors with per-user permissions and quotas
  • Replace ad-hoc file exchange (shared SMB folders or personal cloud drives) with audited transfers
  • Offer automated file ingress/egress for applications via REST API provisioning and scripted clients

Limitations and Considerations

  • Not a general-purpose sync client/server; it is oriented to file transfer and controlled sharing rather than real-time collaboration

SFTPGo is well-suited for organizations that need standards-based file transfer (SFTP/FTPS/WebDAV) with centralized user management and automation. It combines a straightforward deployment with administrative controls commonly needed for managed file transfer scenarios.

11.6kstars
891forks
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#10
ownCloud

ownCloud

Self-hosted file sync and sharing platform with web/mobile/desktop clients, WebDAV access, sharing controls, versioning, and enterprise-grade security and auditing.

ownCloud screenshot

ownCloud is a file sync and sharing (EFSS) server for hosting private cloud storage on your own infrastructure. It provides web, desktop, and mobile access to files, plus secure sharing and collaboration features aimed at organizations that need control, compliance, and extensibility.

Key Features

  • Web interface plus desktop and mobile sync clients for accessing and syncing files
  • WebDAV support for standards-based file access and mounting as a network drive
  • File sharing with link sharing, password protection and expiration (configurable policies)
  • Versioning and recycle bin/trash to recover previous versions and deleted files
  • User and group management with role-based administration and storage quotas
  • External storage backends (e.g., S3-compatible/object storage, SMB/CIFS, FTP) via storage apps
  • Activity stream, notifications, and auditing capabilities (feature set depends on edition/apps)
  • App/plugin ecosystem to extend functionality (e.g., collaboration, storage, auth, integrations)

Use Cases

  • Internal “private Dropbox/OneDrive” for organizations needing data residency and policy control
  • Secure partner/customer file delivery with expiring, password-protected share links
  • Central file access layer over mixed backends (local storage, SMB shares, object storage)

Limitations and Considerations

  • Some advanced enterprise capabilities (governance, compliance features, certain integrations) may require paid enterprise components/support depending on deployment and edition
  • Scaling and performance depend heavily on backend storage, caching, and database tuning; production setups typically require careful ops planning

ownCloud is a mature EFSS platform suited to teams that want a standards-based file platform (notably WebDAV) with flexible storage backends and administrative controls. It fits best where extensibility, policy enforcement, and infrastructure control are primary requirements.

8.7kstars
2.1kforks
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#11
OpenCloud

OpenCloud

Enterprise-ready file sharing and content collaboration with sync, sharing, and integrations, built as a modern successor to ownCloud/Nextcloud-style platforms.

OpenCloud screenshot

OpenCloud is a self-managed content collaboration platform focused on secure file sharing, synchronization, and teamwork around documents and folders. It targets organizations that need an open, extensible alternative to proprietary cloud drives with enterprise-friendly deployment options.

Key Features

  • File management with sharing links and permission controls
  • Sync capabilities for keeping files aligned across devices (via clients/integrations)
  • Web-based user experience for browsing, previewing, and organizing content
  • Integration-oriented architecture (connectors/APIs) for embedding into existing environments
  • Admin/operations tooling for running the service in organizational settings

Use Cases

  • Replace proprietary cloud drives for internal document sharing and collaboration
  • Provide a managed file-sharing service for teams, departments, or customers
  • Act as a storage and sharing layer integrated into an existing IAM/SSO and app stack

Limitations and Considerations

  • Some collaboration features commonly found in suites (e.g., full office editing) may rely on external integrations rather than being built-in.

OpenCloud is suited for teams wanting a modern, open platform for file sync and share with an emphasis on extensibility and controlled operations. It fits well when you need ownership of storage, identity integration, and predictable governance over shared content.

4.6kstars
158forks
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#12
PicoShare

PicoShare

Lightweight web app for sharing files via links, with an admin UI, basic access controls, and Docker-based deployment.

PicoShare screenshot

PicoShare is a lightweight web application for uploading files and sharing them via simple links. It focuses on minimal configuration and a small feature set aimed at quick, self-managed file drops.

Key Features

  • Web UI for uploading and downloading shared files
  • Shareable links for files (easy copy/paste distribution)
  • Admin interface for managing uploads and server settings
  • Optional authentication/access controls (to restrict who can upload/manage)
  • Container-friendly deployment (commonly run via Docker)
  • Simple storage model suitable for small, personal/team file sharing

Use Cases

  • Quick “send a file” alternative to services like WeTransfer for small teams
  • Private file drop for sharing documents with clients via a link
  • Lightweight upload portal on a home server/VPS for ad-hoc transfers

Limitations and Considerations

  • Minimalist by design (not a full sync-and-share platform like Nextcloud)
  • Feature set centers on basic upload/link sharing rather than collaboration workflows

PicoShare is best suited when you want a small, straightforward file-sharing service with a web interface and link-based distribution. If you need advanced permissions, collaboration, or syncing, a larger file platform may be a better fit.

2.8kstars
194forks
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#13
Chibisafe

Chibisafe

Self-hosted file and image sharing with albums, expiring links, and an API—built for quick uploads and easy sharing.

Chibisafe screenshot

Chibisafe is a self-hosted file sharing service focused on quickly uploading and sharing images and other files via a clean web UI and a developer-friendly API. It is commonly used as a lightweight alternative to hosted image/file hosts, with support for direct links and shareable pages.

Key Features

  • Web UI for uploading and managing files
  • Direct file links and share pages for easy sharing
  • Album/gallery organization for grouping uploads
  • Configurable retention options such as expiring links (where supported by configuration)
  • Public API intended for integrations and automation (e.g., upload from scripts)
  • Docker-based deployment for straightforward installation and updates

Use Cases

  • Personal or team image hosting for sharing screenshots and media
  • Private file drop for sharing files via links without relying on third-party hosts
  • Backend for automated uploads from scripts or tools using the API

Limitations and Considerations

  • Primarily focused on lightweight sharing/hosting; it is not a full document management system (advanced workflows, rich permissions, etc.)

Chibisafe fits users who want a simple, fast, link-based sharing workflow with the option to integrate uploads into tooling via an API. It is a practical choice for personal servers, small teams, and homelabs that need predictable control over uploaded content.

2.5kstars
299forks
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#14
Gokapi

Gokapi

Gokapi is a lightweight file-sharing server that provides expiring links, download statistics, and an admin UI for managing uploads and retention policies.

Gokapi screenshot

Gokapi is a lightweight web application for securely sharing files via links. It focuses on simple uploads, configurable retention, and visibility into how shared files are being accessed, making it suitable for personal and small-team “send a file” workflows.

Key Features

  • Web UI for uploading files and generating shareable download links
  • Expiration and retention controls (time-based validity and automatic cleanup)
  • Download tracking and basic statistics (e.g., number of downloads)
  • Optional password protection for shared files/links
  • Admin interface for managing uploads, users/settings, and storage behavior
  • Works well behind a reverse proxy and supports custom domain setups

Use Cases

  • Replace ad-hoc transfers via public services for sending large files to clients
  • Share one-off downloads inside a team with expirations and simple tracking
  • Provide temporary download links for build artifacts or documents

Limitations and Considerations

  • Designed for straightforward file sharing rather than full sync/collaboration (not a Dropbox-style platform)
  • Feature scope is intentionally minimal; advanced enterprise governance/workflows are out of scope

Gokapi aims to be easy to deploy and operate while still providing the essentials—expiring links, optional access controls, and visibility into downloads. If you need a small, focused file-sharing service with an admin UI and retention controls, it fits well.

2.5kstars
117forks
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#15
Enclosed

Enclosed

Self-hosted file sharing for sending files via a link with optional expiration, download limits, and basic access controls.

Enclosed screenshot

Enclosed is a lightweight self-hosted file sharing service focused on quickly sending files to someone using a link. It aims to be simple to operate while offering practical controls such as link expiration and limits to reduce unintended long-term exposure.

Key Features

  • Upload files and generate shareable links for recipients
  • Expiration controls (time-based) to automatically invalidate shares
  • Optional download limits to restrict how many times a link can be used
  • Basic access controls for shared files (e.g., password-protected shares)
  • Web UI intended for quick “upload → copy link → send” workflows

Use Cases

  • Share large attachments without email size limits
  • Send time-limited files (invoices, reports, exports) to external users
  • Provide one-off downloads to clients with download caps

Limitations and Considerations

  • Feature set is intentionally minimal compared to full sync-and-share platforms (no collaborative folders or realtime collaboration)

Enclosed is best suited for individuals or small teams that need a straightforward, self-managed alternative to public file-transfer websites. If your needs extend to full cloud-drive functionality, a sync-and-share platform may be a better fit.

1.9kstars
158forks
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#16
PsiTransfer

PsiTransfer

PsiTransfer is a lightweight web app for sharing files via upload links, with optional one-time downloads, expiration, and basic access controls.

PsiTransfer screenshot

PsiTransfer is a minimal web-based file sharing application designed for quickly sending files through a browser. It provides a simple upload-and-share workflow and can be run as a small standalone service (commonly via Docker) behind your own domain.

Key Features

  • Web UI for uploading and sharing files via generated download links
  • Optional one-time downloads (burn-after-reading style)
  • Expiration options (time-based) for shared files/links
  • Basic access protection options (e.g., password-protected downloads)
  • Drag-and-drop uploads and multi-file support
  • Docker-based deployment support for easy hosting

Use Cases

  • Send large files to clients/teammates without email attachments
  • Create short-lived links for sensitive documents (e.g., invoices, exports)
  • Provide a simple “drop box” endpoint for ad-hoc file collection

Limitations and Considerations

  • Focused on simple transfer/sharing; not a full sync-and-share platform (no folders, collaboration, or rich permissions)

PsiTransfer fits teams or individuals who want a straightforward web interface for temporary file distribution without the complexity of full document management or cloud drive products. It’s best used for ad-hoc transfers where simplicity and expiring/one-time links are more important than collaboration features.

1.8kstars
240forks
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#17
ProjectSend

ProjectSend

ProjectSend is a self-hosted web app for securely sharing files with clients using user accounts, groups, permissions, and optional public links with expiration.

ProjectSend screenshot

ProjectSend is a web-based application for distributing files to clients and stakeholders from your own server. It focuses on controlled delivery: upload files, assign them to specific users or groups, and let recipients download from a private portal.

Key Features

  • Upload files and assign access to individual users or groups
  • Client-facing portal for browsing and downloading available files
  • Optional public links for files (with configurable availability/expiration)
  • User management with roles (admin/staff/client) and permissions
  • Groups to simplify sharing the same files with multiple recipients
  • Email notifications to users when new files are assigned (SMTP)
  • Download/activity logs for basic auditing of access and actions
  • Custom branding (logo, themes) and multi-language UI

Use Cases

  • Agencies delivering final assets and documents to clients
  • Internal teams sharing files with external contractors per project group
  • Organizations publishing files to partners via expiring public links

Limitations and Considerations

  • Not a full sync-and-collaborate platform (no real-time editing or file sync clients)
  • Requires server-side PHP/MySQL administration and ongoing security updates

ProjectSend is best suited for straightforward “send files to clients” workflows where ownership and hosting stay under your control. Its user/group permissions and link sharing make it practical for repeated client deliveries without relying on third-party file transfer services.

1.8kstars
339forks
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#18
Sharry

Sharry

Sharry is a self-hosted file sharing server with upload requests, expiring links, and an optional web UI for securely exchanging files.

Sharry screenshot

Sharry is a self-hosted web application for securely sharing files via links and collecting files from others via “upload requests”. It is designed for lightweight, ad-hoc file exchange (send a link, set limits, receive files) while keeping control of storage and policies.

Key Features

  • Share files via generated links with configurable expiration and limits
  • Upload requests (“drop-offs”): create a link so others can upload files to you
  • Optional password protection for shares/requests
  • Configurable retention/cleanup behavior for expired items
  • Web UI plus HTTP API for automation and integration
  • Authentication options and admin configuration (deployment-dependent)

Use Cases

  • Send large files to external partners with expiring links instead of email attachments
  • Collect documents from clients/candidates through a controlled upload link
  • Internal “temporary transfer” service for teams (ad-hoc exchange without syncing)

Limitations and Considerations

  • Not a sync-and-collaboration drive (no real-time editing or folder sync)
  • Feature set is intentionally focused on sharing/collection rather than full DAM

Sharry fits organizations that need a simple, controlled alternative to public file-transfer sites, with link-based sharing, inbound upload links, and policy-driven expiry/cleanup. It can be deployed as a small internal service or integrated via its API for automated workflows.

1.2kstars
68forks
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#19
xBackBone

xBackBone

xBackBone is a self-hosted web app for uploading files and screenshots, organizing them, and sharing them via direct links with optional expiration and access controls.

xBackBone screenshot

xBackBone is a self-hosted web application for uploading and sharing files and screenshots through a clean web UI and direct links. It’s commonly used as a private alternative to public “file drop” and image hosting services, with user management and link controls.

Key Features

  • Web-based upload and file manager with searchable list views
  • Shareable direct links for files (suitable for quickly sending to others)
  • Optional link expiration / one-time or time-limited sharing (where configured)
  • User authentication with multi-user support and per-user content separation
  • Screenshot-oriented workflow (commonly paired with ShareX and similar tools)
  • Basic organization/metadata (filename, size, upload time) and admin controls
  • API endpoints intended for automation and uploader clients

Use Cases

  • Private replacement for Imgur/WeTransfer-style link sharing
  • Team or homelab “drop zone” for quickly exchanging files and screenshots
  • Integrating with screenshot tools (e.g., ShareX) for instant uploads

Limitations and Considerations

  • Not a full sync platform (no desktop sync like Drive/Dropbox)
  • Feature depth (previewing, advanced permissions, collaboration) is limited vs. enterprise DAM platforms

xBackBone fits best when you want a lightweight, private upload-and-share service with direct links and simple administration. It’s particularly useful for fast screenshot sharing and ad-hoc file transfers without relying on third-party hosts.

1.1kstars
90forks
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Why choose an open source alternative?

  • •Data ownership: Keep your data on your own servers
  • •No vendor lock-in: Freedom to switch or modify at any time
  • •Cost savings: Reduce or eliminate subscription fees
  • •Transparency: Audit the code and know exactly what's running