pyLoad

Self-Hosted

Open-source download automation tool for file hosts & links

Overview

pyLoad is an open-source, self-hosted download automation tool built to simplify grabbing files from 1000+ file hosting services (e.g., Rapidgator, Uploaded.net) and direct links. It automates queuing, archive extraction, captcha solving (via plugins), and scheduling. Manage downloads remotely via a responsive web UI, REST API, or mobile app. Deploy easily with Docker (recommended) or manual installation on Linux, macOS, or Windows. Ideal for users wanting to centralize downloads, retain data control, and cut reliance on proprietary tools.

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

Key Features

Supports 1000+ file hosting services & direct links
Automated captcha solving & archive extraction
Remote management via web UI, API, or mobile app
Scheduling & queue prioritization

Frequently Asked Questions

? Is pyLoad hard to install?

pyLoad is easy to install via Docker (one command) for most users. Manual installation requires Python dependencies, which is more technical but well-documented. The Docker method avoids setup headaches and is recommended for beginners.

? Is it a good alternative to JDownloader 2?

Yes—pyLoad is a privacy-focused open-source alternative to JDownloader 2. It lacks some of JDownloader’s out-of-the-box features but offers self-hosting (no telemetry) and similar core automation (captcha solving, extraction). It’s ideal for users prioritizing data control.

? Is it completely free?

pyLoad itself is 100% free (GPLv3 license) with no hidden costs. Optional third-party plugins (e.g., 2Captcha for captcha solving) may require paid credits, but these are not mandatory and pyLoad works without them for many hosts.

Top Alternatives

JDownloader 2 (proprietary) Search Google

Internet Download Manager (IDM, proprietary) Search Google

Tool Info

Pricing Free/Open Source

Category Automation

Platform Self-Hosted

Pros

⊕ Self-hosted (full privacy & data control)
⊕ 100% free with no subscription fees
⊕ Extensible via community plugins
⊕ Cross-platform deployment options

Cons

⊖ Requires basic server setup knowledge
⊖ Some premium host support needs plugin updates
⊖ Optional captcha plugins may need paid credits
⊖ Mobile app is third-party & less polished