ITG NowHome › AI glossary › Self-hosting
What is Self-hosting?
Self-hosting means running a tool or service on your own computer or server instead of using the maker's website.
- Category Building with AI
- Also called self-hosted, self-host
- Updated 20 Oct 2026
Self-hosting, explained simply
When you self-host, you install the software yourself and run it where you choose. You keep control of it and your data.
The trade-off is that you handle setup, updates, and fixes. Nobody else does that for you.
For example, you could run your own note-taking app on a home computer instead of paying for a hosted version.
On ITG Now, our free tool guides say when a tool can be self-hosted, and what you need to set it up on your own machine.
Related terms
Where you'll see it on ITG Now
- Guidenanobot: Free Self-Hosted AI Assistant You Own (2026)
- GuideOdysseus: Free Self-Hosted AI Workspace (2026 Guide)
- GuideOpenSEO: Free Semrush Alternative, Open Source (2026)
- GuidePaperclip: Free App to Manage AI Agents Like a Company
- GuideHindsight: Free AI Agent Memory That Learns (2026 Guide)
- GuideopenGym: Free Workout Tracker App With No Subscription
Questions people ask about Self-hosting
Is self-hosting free?
The software is often free, but you may pay for the computer or server it runs on. Some tools also have paid versions.
Self-hosting vs SaaS: what is the difference?
With SaaS, the company runs the software for you. With self-hosting, you run it yourself.
Is self-hosting hard?
It depends on the tool. Some install in a few steps, and others need more technical skill.