Compare software

FreedomBoxStartOS
Free

Free and open source; you supply the hardware.

 Free

StartOS can be installed yourself; Start9 also sells servers with it preinstalled.

Linux, Android, Self-hosted Self-hosted
  • Installs server apps with a few clicks
  • Official part of Debian
  • Marketplace for installing self-hosted services
  • Can run on DIY hardware or a bought Start9 server
  • Needs dedicated hardware and a home internet connection
  • Fewer apps than general-purpose home server platforms
  • Limited to software packaged for its marketplace
Downloadable app, Self-hosted, Operating system Self-hosted, Operating system
Open source Open source
License: GPL-3.0-or-later License: MIT
No account needed Not stated if an account is needed
Not stated if it works offline Not stated if it works offline

Checked October 2, 2026

Checked September 23, 2026

Catalog facts only. Anything “not stated” is unconfirmed. Check full listings for details.