Bit
Self-HostedOpen-source self-hosted URL shortener for privacy & control
Overview
Bit is a lightweight, self-hosted URL shortener focused on data ownership and simplicity. It supports custom short links, click analytics, QR code generation, and multi-user access. Built with PHP, it uses SQLite or MySQL for storage, allowing easy deployment via Docker or traditional web servers. Users retain full control over their link data, avoiding reliance on third-party services like Bitly. It includes API access for programmatic link creation and a clean UI for managing links and tracking performance, making it ideal for personal or small team use.
Self-Hosting Resources
Below is a reference structure for docker-compose.yml.
⚠️ Do NOT run blindly. Replace placeholders with official values.
version: '3'
services:
bit:
image: <OFFICIAL_IMAGE_NAME>:latest
container_name: bit
ports:
- "8080:<APP_INTERNAL_PORT>"
volumes:
- ./data:/app/data
restart: unless-stopped Key Features
- Custom short links
- Click analytics & QR codes
- Multi-user support
- API access for automation
Frequently Asked Questions
? Is Bit hard to install?
Bit is easy to install: it offers Docker for one-click deployment or traditional setup with PHP and SQLite/MySQL. Official docs provide step-by-step guides, making it accessible for users with basic server experience.
? Is it a good alternative to Bitly?
Yes—Bit is ideal for users wanting full data control. It lacks Bitly’s advanced team tools but covers core needs like custom links and analytics without third-party reliance.
? Is it completely free?
Bit is open-source under the MIT License, so it’s 100% free to use, modify, and self-host with no hidden costs or subscriptions.
Top Alternatives
People Also Ask about Bit
Tool Info
Pros
- ⊕ Full data ownership (self-hosted)
- ⊕ Lightweight & easy to deploy
- ⊕ Supports SQLite/MySQL storage
- ⊕ No subscription fees
Cons
- ⊖ Requires basic server setup knowledge
- ⊖ Limited advanced features vs. Bitly
- ⊖ Minimal team collaboration tools