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Self-hosted tools give more privacy and control by running on personal devices, not big tech servers.
Eight Windows apps offer alternatives for storage, media, passwords, notes, budgeting, and video calls.
Setup takes effort, but these free, open-source tools help avoid subscriptions and protect data.
Cloud apps like Google Drive, Dropbox, and Zoom are widely used for their convenience, but often involve sharing data with large companies or paying monthly fees. For those seeking greater control and fewer limitations, self-hosted tools provide a strong alternative. These run on a personal computer or private server and match the functions of most cloud services without pushing all data to the internet. Here are eight Windows-compatible tools that prioritize data control and privacy.
Nextcloud allows users to keep files, share them with others, handle schedules, and even collaborate on documents. All data remains on a personal server cutting out any third-party company involvement. It's compatible with various devices and offers additional features for things like video chats and email when necessary. This arrangement gives off a Google Workspace vibe but stays under private control.
Jellyfin is a media server. Movies, TV shows, and music can be added and streamed on phones, TVs, or laptops. It doesn’t require an account and doesn’t track anything. It’s useful for families or friend groups who want to set up their own private version of Netflix or Spotify with local files. Jellyfin runs smoothly on Windows and supports many file types.
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Syncthing lets devices share files directly with each other. For example, if a photo is saved on a laptop, Syncthing can send it to a phone without using the internet. There’s no need to upload anything to the cloud. The files move straight between the devices, and they’re protected with encryption so no one else can see them.
Vaultwarden is a simpler version of Bitwarden, a popular password manager. It stores passwords securely and works with the same apps and browser extensions as Bitwarden. It’s lightweight, easy to run on older hardware, and puts full control of password data in the hands of the person hosting it.
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Joplin is a free app for writing notes, saving to-do lists, and organizing information. It works a bit like Evernote but without sending data to any company. Notes can be sorted into folders and tagged. Everything can be synced using other tools like Syncthing or Nextcloud. It also supports encryption, which helps keep private notes safe.
NocoDB turns spreadsheets into easy-to-use apps. It works with databases and lets people build tools for projects, inventory, or content without needing to write code. Think of it like a self-hosted version of Airtable. It's useful for small teams or individuals who need structure without monthly software bills.
Firefly III is a budgeting tool for tracking spending, planning savings, and keeping an eye on financial goals. It works like apps such as Mint or YNAB, but without sending financial data anywhere. It can connect to bank exports, generate reports, and support multiple accounts. People who are serious about managing money often turn to this for full control.
Jitsi Meet is a tool for video calls that works in any browser, no downloads or accounts required. It supports screen sharing, chat, and meeting links that can be shared easily. It’s helpful for private group chats, meetings, or even classes. The best part: the host can run it on a private server, keeping all call data secure.
Self-hosted tools require more setup compared to regular apps, but they offer complete control over data handling. Ideal for those looking to move away from big tech or avoid ongoing subscription costs, these Windows-compatible apps are free, open-source, and designed with privacy as a priority.
