Dropbox
Cloud file storage and sync for teams and individuals
Puter
Self-hostable internet operating system with cloud storage and apps
Open-source web-based operating system combining personal cloud storage, app platform, and remote desktop environment. Self-host or use the hosted service at puter.com.
Overview
What is Puter?
Puter is an advanced internet operating system that runs entirely in your browser, offering a complete desktop environment accessible from anywhere. Designed for developers, privacy-conscious users, and teams seeking alternatives to traditional cloud platforms, Puter combines file storage, application hosting, and remote desktop capabilities in a single, cohesive interface.
Core Capabilities
As a privacy-first personal cloud, Puter securely stores files, apps, and games with access from any device. It serves as a development platform for building and publishing websites, web apps, and games. The system functions as a remote desktop environment for servers and workstations, while offering a compelling alternative to Dropbox, Google Drive, and OneDrive with enhanced features and a modern interface.
Deployment Options
Puter supports flexible deployment: use the hosted service at puter.com, self-host via Docker or Docker Compose, or run locally for development. The system requires minimal resources (2GB RAM, 1GB disk space) and runs on Linux, macOS, and Windows. Built with JavaScript and licensed under AGPL-3.0, Puter welcomes contributions and provides extensive documentation for self-hosting configurations.
Highlights
Browser-based desktop environment with file management and app ecosystem
Self-hostable with Docker support or use hosted service at puter.com
Privacy-first cloud storage alternative to mainstream platforms
Platform for building and publishing web apps and games
Pros
- Complete operating system experience accessible from any browser
- Flexible deployment options: hosted, self-hosted, or local development
- Active community with 36,000+ GitHub stars and extensive language support
- Low system requirements (2GB RAM, 1GB disk) for self-hosting
Considerations
- AGPL-3.0 license requires derivative works to be open-sourced
- Browser-based architecture may have performance limitations vs native apps
- Relatively new project with evolving feature set and documentation
- Self-hosting requires technical knowledge of Docker and web infrastructure
Managed products teams compare with
When teams consider Puter, these hosted platforms usually appear on the same shortlist.
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Fit guide
Great for
- Privacy-conscious users seeking control over personal cloud data
- Developers building and hosting web applications and games
- Teams needing self-hosted alternatives to Google Drive or Dropbox
- Learning web development, cloud computing, and distributed systems
Not ideal when
- Organizations requiring enterprise SLAs and commercial support contracts
- Users needing native desktop performance for resource-intensive applications
- Teams unable to comply with AGPL-3.0 copyleft requirements
- Non-technical users without Docker or self-hosting experience
How teams use it
Personal Cloud Storage Replacement
Replace Dropbox or Google Drive with a self-hosted, privacy-first cloud accessible from any device with complete data ownership.
Remote Server Management
Access and manage remote servers and workstations through a familiar desktop environment without installing client software.
Web App Development Platform
Build, test, and publish web applications and games using integrated development tools and hosting capabilities.
Educational Computing Environment
Teach web development, cloud computing, and distributed systems concepts using an accessible, open-source platform.
Tech snapshot
JavaScript93%
CSS2%
TypeScript2%
HTML2%
Python1%
Shell1%
Frequently asked questions
Can I use Puter without self-hosting?
Yes, Puter is available as a hosted service at puter.com, allowing immediate use without installation or infrastructure management.
What are the minimum system requirements for self-hosting?
Puter requires 2GB RAM (4GB recommended), 1GB disk space, Node.js 20.19.5+, and runs on Linux, macOS, or Windows. Docker deployment is also supported.
How does Puter compare to Dropbox or Google Drive?
Puter offers similar cloud storage functionality with added features: a complete desktop environment, app hosting platform, and full self-hosting control for privacy and data ownership.
What license does Puter use?
Puter is licensed under AGPL-3.0, which requires any modifications or derivative works to be released as open source if distributed or offered as a service.
Is Puter suitable for production use?
Puter can be used in production, especially for self-hosted deployments. Evaluate your specific requirements, as it's an evolving project with an active community and regular updates.
Project at a glance
Active- Stars
- 38,827
- Watchers
- 38,827
- Forks
- 3,407
LicenseAGPL-3.0
Repo age1 year old
Last commityesterday
Self-hostingSupported
Primary languageJavaScript
Last synced yesterday