SimpleX Chat

Self-Hosted

Privacy-first, serverless end-to-end encrypted chat with no user IDs

Overview

SimpleX Chat is a privacy-centric communication app that eliminates user IDs (no phone numbers/emails) for anonymous, secure interactions. It uses end-to-end encryption for all messages, group chats, file sharing, and voice notes. Users can self-host their own relays to control data flow or use public ones. Cross-platform (mobile/desktop) and decentralized, it ensures no single point of failure, making it ideal for privacy-conscious users seeking an alternative to mainstream chat apps.

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

Key Features

No user IDs (no phone/email required)
End-to-end encrypted group chats & file sharing
Self-hostable relays for data sovereignty

Frequently Asked Questions

? Is SimpleX Chat easy to install for regular users?

Installing the mobile or desktop app is straightforward (available on App Store, Google Play, and GitHub). Self-hosting relays requires basic server knowledge (Docker setup or manual configuration with documentation).

? How does SimpleX Chat compare to Signal in privacy?

SimpleX offers stronger anonymity (no phone number required) compared to Signal's phone-based user IDs. Both use end-to-end encryption, but SimpleX's decentralized relays provide additional data sovereignty options.

? Is SimpleX Chat completely free?

Yes—SimpleX Chat is open source (MIT license) with no paid tiers. End users pay nothing, and self-hosting relays only incurs server hosting costs if you choose to run your own.

Top Alternatives

WhatsApp Search Google

Telegram Compare

Discord Compare

Tool Info

Pricing Open Source

Category Communication - Custom Communication Systems

Platform Self-Hosted

Pros

⊕ Extreme privacy focus
⊕ No subscription fees
⊕ Decentralized architecture

Cons

⊖ Steeper learning curve for new users
⊖ Self-hosted relays require maintenance
⊖ Smaller user base than mainstream apps