Schleuder

Self-Hosted

Secure, encrypted mailing list manager for privacy-focused teams

Overview

Schleuder is a privacy-first mailing list manager enabling confidential group communication via end-to-end PGP encryption. It automates key management, offers moderation tools (approve posts, filter senders), supports anonymous submissions, and maintains audit logs. Deployable via Debian/Ubuntu packages, Docker containers, or source code, it integrates seamlessly with existing email infrastructure. Ideal for activists, nonprofits, or teams prioritizing data privacy, Schleuder ensures no third party (including server admins) can access unencrypted message content.

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

Key Features

End-to-end PGP encryption for message confidentiality
Automated PGP key management and validation
Flexible moderation controls (post approval, sender filtering)
Anonymous post submissions for secure participation

Frequently Asked Questions

? Is Schleuder hard to install?

Schleuder can be installed via Debian/Ubuntu packages, Docker containers, or source code. While it requires basic server admin knowledge (e.g., managing email servers, PGP), official documentation provides step-by-step guides, and Docker images simplify deployment for containerization users.

? Is Schleuder a good alternative to Google Groups for privacy?

Yes! Unlike Google Groups (which lacks end-to-end encryption), Schleuder uses PGP to secure messages. No third party—including your server admin—can read unencrypted content, making it ideal for privacy-conscious teams.

? Is Schleuder completely free?

Absolutely. Schleuder is open-source software licensed under GPLv3. There are no subscription fees or paid tiers—you can use, modify, and self-host it without any cost.

Top Alternatives

Google Groups Search Google

Microsoft 365 Groups Search Google

Tool Info

Pricing Free/Open Source

Category Communication - Email - Mailing Lists and Newsletters

Platform Self-Hosted

Pros

⊕ Privacy-focused (no third-party access to unencrypted messages)
⊕ Open-source (GPLv3 licensed, customizable and auditable)
⊕ Seamless integration with existing email servers

Cons

⊖ Requires basic server administration skills for setup
⊖ Steeper learning curve for users unfamiliar with PGP
⊖ Limited graphical interface (primarily CLI/config file-based)