- GitHub stars
- 17,278
- License
- MIT
- Latest release
- v9.15.0
28 September 2026 - Last commit
- 12 October 2026
- Runs on
- PHP
Commits per month, last 12 months
666 commits
Replaces
Paid products koel can stand in for.
How to self-host koel
koel runs on PHP. The project's own install guide is the place to start; most people put it on a small server with Docker and a reverse proxy for HTTPS.
- Get a server: a home server, a VPS, or a managed app host.
- Install it the way the project's docs describe, usually with Docker Compose.
- Put it behind HTTPS and set up backups before you add real data.
- Update it regularly. Watch the project's releases.
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Questions
Is koel free?
Yes. koel is open source under the MIT license, so you can use it without paying for a license. You pay only for the server it runs on.
Can I self-host koel?
Yes. koel runs on PHP. Follow the install guide in the project's documentation, or use a host that installs it for you.
What does koel replace?
People use koel instead of Apple Music or Spotify.
Is koel still maintained?
The last change to koel's code was on 12 October 2026, with 666 commits in the last 12 months.
Topics
App data from awesome-selfhosted (CC BY-SA 3.0), stars and activity from GitHub.