Deluge

Self-Hosted

Open-source, lightweight BitTorrent client with plugin support

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Overview

Deluge is a free, open-source BitTorrent client built on libtorrent, designed for cross-platform use (Linux, macOS, Windows). It features a client-server architecture enabling remote management via web UI, desktop app, or CLI—ideal for headless server setups. With plugin support, users can add custom features like bandwidth scheduling, label organization, and RSS feeds. It prioritizes privacy with protocol encryption and proxy integration. Self-hostable via Docker or direct installation, Deluge is lightweight and customizable, perfect for users seeking control over their P2P file-sharing experience without proprietary restrictions.

Key Features

  • Client-server architecture for remote access (web UI, desktop, CLI)
  • Extensible plugin system for custom workflows (scheduler, labels)
  • Privacy-focused tools: protocol encryption and proxy support

Frequently Asked Questions

? Is Deluge hard to install?

Deluge is easy to install for desktop use (binaries available for major OSes). For self-hosted headless setups, Docker images simplify deployment. Setting up remote management (web UI/CLI) requires basic port forwarding and configuration, but guides are readily available online.

? Is Deluge a good alternative to proprietary clients like uTorrent?

Yes—Deluge is ad-free, open source, and offers comparable core features (torrent management, bandwidth control) plus plugin flexibility. Unlike uTorrent, it has no hidden tracking or paid tiers, making it ideal for privacy-conscious users.

? Is Deluge completely free?

Absolutely—Deluge is licensed under GPLv3, so all features (including remote access, plugins, and privacy tools) are free to use with no restrictions or paid upgrades.

Top Alternatives

uTorrent Classic Search Google
BitTorrent Desktop Search Google

Tool Info

Pricing Free/Open Source
Category File Transfer - Peer-to-peer Filesharing
Platform Self-Hosted

Pros

  • ⊕ Ad-free and open source with no subscription fees
  • ⊕ Lightweight and optimized for headless server deployments

Cons

  • ⊖ Client-server setup requires basic technical skills for remote access
  • ⊖ Advanced plugin configurations may have a learning curve

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