Self-hosting: What Makes Sense to Host Yourself

Self-hosting gives you control over your data. But it doesn’t always make sense.

Definitely Self-host¶

• Pi-hole — DNS ad blocking (simple, huge benefit)
• Vaultwarden — Bitwarden-compatible password manager
• Nextcloud — files, calendar, contacts
• Gitea/Forgejo — Git hosting
• Uptime Kuma — monitoring

Consider¶

• Immich — Google Photos alternative (needs performance)
• Paperless-ngx — document management
• Jellyfin — media server
• Syncthing — file sync (simple, no server needed)

Probably Not¶

• Email server — complex, deliverability is hell
• Chat (Matrix/Rocket) — unless you have 10+ users
• Anything critical without backup and monitoring

Self-hosting Rules¶

1. Backup is MANDATORY
2. Automatic updates (Watchtower)
3. Reverse proxy + SSL (Traefik, Caddy)
4. Firewall
5. VPN for external access (no open ports)

Rule¶

Self-host what improves privacy or saves money. Don’t self-host what needs to work 24/7 if you don’t have time for it.