GoToSocial

Self-Hosted

Open-source federated social network server (ActivityPub compatible)

Overview

GoToSocial is an open-source, lightweight federated social network server built on the ActivityPub protocol. It lets you run your own social media instance, enabling interaction with millions of users across the Fediverse (including Mastodon, Pixelfed, and Pleroma). Key features include custom profiles, media uploads, timeline filtering, and robust moderation tools for admins. Designed for self-hosting, it works on low-resource hardware like Raspberry Pi with deployment options via Docker, binary packages, or source code. Maintain full control over your data and privacy while participating in a decentralized social ecosystem.

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:
  go_to_social:
    image: <OFFICIAL_IMAGE_NAME>:latest
    container_name: go-to-social
    ports:
      - "8080:<APP_INTERNAL_PORT>"
    volumes:
      - ./data:/app/data
    restart: unless-stopped

Key Features

ActivityPub federation (interact with Fediverse platforms)
Lightweight self-hosting (supports Raspberry Pi & Docker)
Mastodon-compatible client support (Tusky, Elk, etc.)
Strong moderation & privacy controls

Frequently Asked Questions

? Is GoToSocial hard to install?

Installation difficulty varies by technical skill, but Docker and pre-built binaries simplify the process. Step-by-step guides are available for Raspberry Pi, VPS, and local setups. Basic command-line knowledge helps, but beginners can follow official docs to get an instance running quickly.

? Is it a good alternative to Twitter/X?

Yes! GoToSocial is an excellent alternative for users wanting data control. Unlike Twitter/X, it’s federated—you can interact with Fediverse users while running your own instance. It supports core features like posting, replying, and following without centralized ads or algorithmic manipulation.

? Is it completely free?

Absolutely! GoToSocial is open source (AGPLv3 license) with no paid tiers or subscriptions. You only cover hosting costs if using a VPS; it can also run on your own hardware like a Raspberry Pi for zero ongoing fees.

Top Alternatives

Twitter/X Search Google

Meta Threads Search Google

Instagram Search Google

Tool Info

Pricing Open Source

Category Communication - Social Networks and Forums

Platform Self-Hosted

Pros

⊕ Privacy-focused (full ownership of your data)
⊕ No subscription fees (100% open source)
⊕ Federated ecosystem (avoid centralized control)
⊕ Low resource usage (runs on affordable hardware)

Cons

⊖ Requires technical setup (self-hosting knowledge)
⊖ No native client (depends on third-party apps)
⊖ Smaller user base than centralized platforms