Compare software

StartOSFreedomBox
Free

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

 Free

Free and open source; you supply the hardware.

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

Checked September 23, 2026

Checked October 2, 2026

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