FlatPress

Self-Hosted

Lightweight flat-file blogging platform with no database required

Overview

FlatPress is a lightweight, open-source flat-file blogging platform that eliminates database dependency. It stores content in plain text files (Markdown/HTML), simplifying setup and maintenance. Deploy by uploading files to any PHP-compatible web server (5.6+). It supports themes/plugins for customization, including comments, categories, and RSS feeds. Ideal for bloggers valuing speed, privacy, and control over data without the complexity of database-driven systems.

Self-Hosting Resources

Find Official Image on Docker Hub View Source & Docs

Below is a reference structure for docker-compose.yml. ⚠️ Do NOT run blindly. Replace placeholders with official values.

docker-compose.template.yml TEMPLATE


version: '3'
services:
  flatpress:
    image: <OFFICIAL_IMAGE_NAME>:latest
    container_name: flatpress
    ports:
      - "8080:<APP_INTERNAL_PORT>"
    volumes:
      - ./data:/app/data
    restart: unless-stopped

Key Features

No database needed (flat-file storage)
Simple deployment (upload to PHP server)
Themes & plugins for customization
Markdown/HTML content editing support

Frequently Asked Questions

? Is FlatPress hard to install?

No—FlatPress needs no database setup. Upload files to a PHP 5.6+ web server, then follow the simple installation wizard or edit the config file manually for quick setup.

? Is it a good alternative to WordPress.com?

Yes—FlatPress is ideal for users wanting full data control and no subscriptions. Unlike WordPress.com, it’s self-hosted, uses flat files, and has minimal overhead, though it offers fewer built-in features than the SaaS platform.

? Is it completely free?

Yes—FlatPress is open-source under the GNU GPL. It’s 100% free to download, use, modify, and distribute without hidden costs.

Top Alternatives

WordPress.com Search Google

Medium Search Google

Tool Info

Pricing Open Source

Category Blogging Platforms

Platform Self-Hosted

Pros

⊕ Privacy-focused (no database to compromise)
⊕ Minimal server requirements (only PHP)
⊕ Fast load times (flat files are lightweight)
⊕ Easy backups (just copy files)

Cons

⊖ Limited scalability for very large blogs
⊖ Smaller plugin/theme ecosystem vs database-driven platforms
⊖ Requires basic web server knowledge for self-hosting