LedgerSMB

Self-Hosted

Open-source ERP & accounting for small to medium businesses

Overview

LedgerSMB is an open-source Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) and accounting solution tailored for small to medium-sized businesses. It combines core accounting (general ledger, accounts payable/receivable) with inventory management, order processing, invoicing, and financial reporting. Deployable via self-hosting (supports Docker containers), it runs on PostgreSQL for robust data storage and offers a web-based interface accessible from any modern browser. It integrates with tax systems, payment gateways, and third-party tools, ensuring compliance and flexibility for privacy-focused businesses.

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

Key Features

Core accounting & financial management
Inventory & order processing
Customizable financial reporting
Docker-friendly deployment

Frequently Asked Questions

? Is LedgerSMB hard to install?

LedgerSMB supports Docker deployment which simplifies setup for technical users; however, it requires configuring a PostgreSQL database and web server (or Docker Compose) which may challenge non-technical users. Community docs and forums provide step-by-step guidance.

? Is it a good alternative to QuickBooks Enterprise?

Yes—LedgerSMB offers similar core ERP/accounting features (inventory, invoicing, reporting) but is open-source and self-hosted, making it ideal for businesses prioritizing data privacy and avoiding subscription costs. It may lack some of QuickBooks' niche integrations or user-friendly UI.

? Is LedgerSMB completely free?

Yes—LedgerSMB is released under the GNU GPL license, so there are no licensing fees or subscriptions. Users only pay for hosting (server/domain) or optional commercial support services if needed.

Top Alternatives

QuickBooks Enterprise Search Google

Xero Search Google

Sage Intacct Search Google

Tool Info

Pricing Open Source

Category Resource Planning

Platform Self-Hosted

Pros

⊕ Privacy-focused (self-hosted data control)
⊕ No subscription fees
⊕ PostgreSQL-backed data security
⊕ Integrates with tax/payment systems

Cons

⊖ Requires technical setup (server/Docker configuration)
⊖ Steeper learning curve for non-accounting users
⊖ Limited third-party app ecosystem vs. SaaS ERPs