Paying for software is stupid… 10 free and open-source SaaS replacements

Introduction

In this tutorial, we will explore ten free and open-source software-as-a-service (SaaS) alternatives that can replace popular paid tools. This guide is ideal for developers and users looking to save money while maintaining functionality in their workflows. Each alternative offers unique features while being self-hosted, ensuring you have full control over your software environment.

Step 1: Replace Microsoft Office with LibreOffice

• Overview: LibreOffice is a powerful office suite that provides tools for word processing, spreadsheets, presentations, and more.
• How to Get Started:
  • Download LibreOffice from the official website.
  • Install it on your device by following the setup instructions.
  • Familiarize yourself with its interface, which is similar to Microsoft Office.

Step 2: Replace Notion with AppFlowy

• Overview: AppFlowy is a free and open-source alternative to Notion, allowing for note-taking and project management.
• How to Get Started:
  • Visit the AppFlowy GitHub repository to download the software.
  • Follow the installation guide to set it up on your system.
  • Begin creating notes and databases with a user-friendly interface.

Step 3: Replace Heroku with Dokku

• Overview: Dokku is a simple, self-hosted platform-as-a-service that enables you to deploy apps similarly to Heroku.
• How to Get Started:
  • Check the Dokku GitHub page for installation instructions.
  • Set up Dokku on your server, ensuring you have Docker installed.
  • Deploy your applications using the command line, mimicking Heroku's deployment process.

Step 4: Replace Vercel with Coolify

• Overview: Coolify is an open-source platform to deploy and manage applications, similar to Vercel.
• How to Get Started:
  • Go to the Coolify GitHub repository and follow the setup guide.
  • Install Coolify on your server.
  • Use the web interface to deploy your projects effortlessly.

Step 5: Replace Zoom with Jitsi

• Overview: Jitsi is a free, open-source video conferencing solution that can replace Zoom.
• How to Get Started:
  • Access Jitsi via the Jitsi GitHub page.
  • You can use the hosted version or self-host Jitsi by following the installation instructions.
  • Schedule and host video calls securely and privately.

Step 6: Replace Adobe Creative Suite with GIMP

• Overview: GIMP is a powerful image editing tool that serves as a free alternative to Adobe Photoshop.
• How to Get Started:
  • Download GIMP from the official site.
  • Install and open the application.
  • Explore its tools for photo editing and graphic design.

Step 7: Replace Airtable with NocoDB

• Overview: NocoDB is an open-source alternative to Airtable that allows you to create databases easily.
• How to Get Started:
  • Access the NocoDB GitHub repository for installation instructions.
  • Set up NocoDB on your server.
  • Start creating and managing your databases through an intuitive interface.

Step 8: Replace Slack with Mattermost

• Overview: Mattermost is an open-source messaging platform that can replace Slack for team collaboration.
• How to Get Started:
  • Visit the Mattermost GitHub page and follow the setup guide.
  • Install Mattermost on your server or use a hosted version.
  • Create channels, share files, and communicate with your team effectively.

Step 9: Replace Firebase with Instant

• Overview: Instant is an open-source alternative to Firebase, providing database services for applications.
• How to Get Started:
  • Check out the Instant GitHub repository for installation instructions.
  • Set up the Instant database on your server.
  • Use it to manage your application's backend data seamlessly.

Conclusion

By utilizing these ten free and open-source SaaS alternatives, you can significantly reduce your software costs while maintaining productivity. Each tool offers robust features and the benefit of self-hosting, allowing for greater control over your data and workflows. Explore these options and choose the ones that best fit your needs for a more economical and efficient software experience.