- GitHub stars
- 15,236
- License
- GPL-3.0
- Latest release
- v4.16.2
5 October 2026 - Last commit
- 13 October 2026
- Runs on
- Node.js, Docker
Commits per month, last 12 months
3,358 commits
Replaces
Paid products NodeBB can stand in for.
How to self-host NodeBB
NodeBB runs on Node.js and Docker. 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 NodeBB free?
Yes. NodeBB is open source under the GPL-3.0 license, so you can use it without paying for a license. You pay only for the server it runs on.
Can I self-host NodeBB?
Yes. NodeBB runs on Node.js and Docker. Follow the install guide in the project's documentation, or use a host that installs it for you.
What does NodeBB replace?
People use NodeBB instead of XenForo, Circle or Facebook Groups.
Is NodeBB still maintained?
The last change to NodeBB's code was on 13 October 2026, with 3358 commits in the last 12 months.
Topics
App data from awesome-selfhosted (CC BY-SA 3.0), stars and activity from GitHub.