PeerTube

Self-Hosted

Open-source decentralized alternative to YouTube for peer-to-peer video streaming

Overview

PeerTube is a federated, open-source video platform enabling users to host custom instances while connecting to a global network via ActivityPub. It uses peer-to-peer streaming to reduce bandwidth costs, supports live streaming, video transcoding, and customizable moderation tools. Deployable via Docker, Docker Compose, or manual Linux setup, it allows cross-instance discovery and interaction. Ideal for creators seeking privacy, content control, and an alternative to centralized platforms, it empowers communities to run independent video services without relying on a single provider.

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

Key Features

Federated & decentralized via ActivityPub
Peer-to-peer video delivery to cut bandwidth costs
Live streaming support with real-time interaction
Customizable instance moderation tools
Video transcoding for multi-resolution playback

Frequently Asked Questions

? Is PeerTube hard to install?

PeerTube is straightforward to install using Docker or Docker Compose, which automates most setup steps. Manual installation requires Linux server expertise (e.g., Nginx, PostgreSQL, Node.js), but official documentation provides detailed, step-by-step guides for both methods.

? Is it a good alternative to YouTube?

Yes—PeerTube is an excellent privacy-focused alternative for creators wanting control over their content. While its federated audience is smaller than YouTube’s, it allows cross-instance discovery and avoids centralized restrictions like algorithmic bias or arbitrary content takedowns.

? Is it completely free?

PeerTube is 100% free and open-source (licensed under AGPLv3). However, self-hosting your instance incurs server and bandwidth costs, depending on your usage (e.g., number of videos, live streams, or viewers).

Top Alternatives

YouTube Compare

Vimeo Search Google

Tool Info

Pricing Free/Open Source

Category Media Streaming - Video Streaming

Platform Self-Hosted

Pros

⊕ Privacy-focused (no centralized data collection)
⊕ Reduced bandwidth expenses via peer-to-peer sharing
⊕ Full control over your instance and content
⊕ Federated network enables cross-instance discovery
⊕ Open-source with active community development

Cons

⊖ Requires technical knowledge to set up and maintain
⊖ Smaller audience compared to centralized platforms like YouTube
⊖ Transcoding needs significant server CPU/GPU resources
⊖ Limited third-party integrations (e.g., monetization tools)
⊖ Federated ecosystem can have varying content moderation standards