When Self-Hosting Fits

OpenPost offers the same product as a managed app and an open-source server. Self-hosting lets you choose where the app runs and where it stores data. You also take care of the server.

What You Control

A self-hosted installation stores OpenPost data on servers and storage you choose:

• drafts, schedules, workspaces, and publishing history in SQLite or PostgreSQL;
• media on local disk or S3-compatible object storage;
• encrypted social account tokens in the app database;
• app secrets, social app keys, logs, backups, and data retention settings.

OpenPost still sends content and access tokens to each social network when it carries out your request. Self-hosting changes who runs OpenPost. It does not remove the social networks.

What You Need to Operate

Plan for these server tasks:

• TLS and a public application URL;
• unique JWT and encryption secrets;
• database and media backups, plus tested restores;
• release updates and security patches;
• social app keys, callback addresses, permissions, and review;
• checks for failed posts and low storage.

The default setup stays small: one Go binary or container, SQLite, local media, and saved background jobs. Redis is not required. You can use PostgreSQL and S3-compatible storage for a larger setup.

Choose the Managed App When

Use the managed app if you want OpenPost without maintaining its server, backups, TLS, and upgrades. It is also simpler when you do not need a custom server setup or code changes.

Managed plans start at $15 per month and include a card-required 14-day trial. OpenPost shows the renewal price and date before you start. An active or trialing plan is required to connect accounts, upload media, schedule, or publish.

Choose Self-Hosting When

Self-hosting is a good fit when you:

• already operate a server and can maintain it;
• need application data in a specific environment;
• want to inspect or change the code;
• need custom storage, networking, or social app settings;
• accept the server work and cost.

The self-hosted edition has no software fee. Server and social network API costs still apply.

Start with the self-hosting guide for deployment steps and the security policy for production guidance.