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Open-Source Projects
Discover top open-source software, updated regularly with real-world adoption signals.
Discover top open-source software, updated regularly with real-world adoption signals.
Self‑hosted Node.js backend compatible with MongoDB, PostgreSQL, and GraphQL
Parse Server provides a flexible, self‑hosted backend for mobile and web apps, supporting Express, MongoDB, PostgreSQL, Docker, Live Query, and GraphQL, with extensive configuration options.
Parse Server is a self‑hosted backend that runs on any Node.js‑compatible infrastructure. It can be added to existing Express applications or operated as a standalone service, giving developers full control over deployment, scaling, and security.
The server supports multiple data stores—including MongoDB, PostgreSQL (with PostGIS), and custom adapters—plus built‑in features such as Live Query for real‑time updates and a GraphQL endpoint alongside the traditional REST API. Quick start options include a local npm installation, Docker images, or the CLI, and long‑term‑support (LTS) branches provide security updates for previous major versions.
Ideal for teams that need a customizable backend, want to retain ownership of their data, or require both REST and GraphQL interfaces. While it offers extensive flexibility, users must manage their own hosting environment and stay current with security patches.
When teams consider Parse Server, these hosted platforms usually appear on the same shortlist.
Looking for a hosted option? These are the services engineering teams benchmark against before choosing open source.
Real‑time chat app backend
Live Query delivers instant message updates to connected clients
E‑commerce site with Express
Parse Server stores product and order data in PostgreSQL, handling authentication and ACLs
Migration from Parse.com
Seamless transition using identical SDKs while self‑hosting data
GraphQL API for existing mobile app
Expose data via GraphQL for flexible client queries alongside REST endpoints
Install globally with `npm install -g parse-server mongodb-runner`, start MongoDB via `mongodb-runner start`, then run `parse-server --appId YOUR_APP_ID --masterKey YOUR_MASTER_KEY --databaseURI mongodb://localhost/test`.
Yes. Build the image (`docker build -t parse-server .`) and run it, linking a MongoDB container and exposing port 1337. Add volume mounts for config or Cloud Code as needed.
MongoDB and PostgreSQL (with PostGIS) are officially tested. Custom adapters can be used for other storage solutions.
LTS branches provide security updates for the previous major version, allowing projects to stay on a stable release while the main branch advances.
Mount a volume containing your Cloud Code directory and pass `--cloud /parse-server/cloud/main.js` when starting the container.
Project at a glance
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