How these guides work
Each guide recommends one sensible starting method, then links to the project's official documentation for the details that change over time. Start small, verify the setup and test recovery before moving important data.
Media & storage
How to set up Jellyfin
Install Jellyfin, create an authorized media library and connect the first household device.
How to set up Immich
Deploy Immich with its recommended Docker Compose method and test mobile photo backup safely.
How to set up Nextcloud
Create a private file-sync service without beginning with an unnecessarily complicated manual installation.
How to set up Paperless-ngx
Deploy a private OCR document archive and prove recovery before adding sensitive records.
Personal & household
How to set up openGym
Run openGym with Docker, create a profile and configure secure phone access.
How to set up Actual Budget
Try Actual locally, import a statement and add a server only when synchronization is useful.
How to set up Mealie
Create a shared recipe library with meal planning and shopping lists using Docker.
How to set up Karakeep
Deploy the bookmark-everything app, test page archiving and leave AI disabled until the core workflow works.
AI & productivity
How to run local AI with Jan
Install Jan, choose a model that fits the computer and verify that local inference is really local.
How to set up AppFlowy
Start with a local AppFlowy workspace and avoid self-hosting the collaboration backend before it is needed.
How to self-host Penpot
Deploy Penpot with Docker, create the first design account and protect the project database and assets.
How to self-host Plane
Install Plane Community Edition, create a workspace and test backup before moving a real team.
Automation & hosting
How to set up Activepieces
Deploy Activepieces with Docker Compose and make webhook-driven automations reachable safely.
How to self-host Chatwoot
Deploy a test Chatwoot inbox with Docker before trusting it with real customer conversations.
How to set up Coolify
Install Coolify on a fresh server, secure the first administrator and deploy a disposable application.