Mailcow

Self-Hosted

Open-source self-hosted email server solution

Overview

Mailcow is a full-stack, open-source email server suite featuring SMTP, IMAP/POP3, spam filtering (Rspamd), antivirus (ClamAV), webmail (Roundcube/SOGo), and an intuitive admin UI. It uses Docker containers for simplified deployment and management, accessible to beginners and experts alike. Key features include DKIM/SPF/DMARC support, CalDAV/CardDAV sync, multi-domain management, and automated backups. It prioritizes user privacy and control, enabling self-hosting without relying on third-party email providers.

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

Key Features

Dockerized deployment for easy setup and scaling
Integrated spam (Rspamd) and antivirus (ClamAV) protection
Webmail + CalDAV/CardDAV sync (Roundcube/SOGo)

Frequently Asked Questions

? Is Mailcow hard to install?

Mailcow uses Docker Compose, making installation straightforward: clone the repo, adjust config, and run docker-compose up. Official docs guide you through DNS setup and initial configuration, so even users new to self-hosted email can get it running.

? Is it a good alternative to Gmail Workspace?

Yes—Mailcow offers core features like email, calendar, and contacts, plus full data ownership (unlike Gmail). It’s free, but requires self-hosting and maintenance, which Gmail handles for paid users.

? Is it completely free?

Mailcow is 100% open-source (GPLv3 license) and free to use. You only pay for the server resources (e.g., VPS, storage) needed to host it—no subscription fees.

Top Alternatives

Gmail Workspace Search Google

Microsoft 365 Search Google

Tool Info

Pricing Open Source

Category Communication - Email - Complete Solutions

Platform Self-Hosted

Pros

⊕ Privacy-focused self-hosting (full data control)
⊕ Docker-based for simple updates and maintenance

Cons

⊖ Requires server resources with Docker support
⊖ DNS configuration (DKIM/SPF/DMARC) needed for deliverability