Whoogle

Self-Hosted

Open-source, privacy-focused alternative to Google Search

Overview

Whoogle is an open-source search engine that proxies Google requests to deliver ad-free, untracked results. It removes tracking parameters, avoids user profiling, and offers customizable themes/dark mode. Deployment is easy via Docker (single command), Raspberry Pi, VPS, or public instances. No user data is stored, ensuring privacy while leveraging Google’s index for relevant results. It supports browser integration as a default search engine and works without mandatory JavaScript.

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

Key Features

Privacy-centric results (no ads/tracking)
Docker & self-hosting support
Customizable interface (themes, dark mode)
Browser integration as default search engine

Frequently Asked Questions

? Is Whoogle hard to install?

No—Whoogle can be deployed in minutes using Docker (one command: `docker run -d -p 5000:5000 benbusby/whoogle-search`). It also works on Raspberry Pi, VPS, or Heroku, with pre-built binaries for quick setup.

? Is it a good alternative to Google Search?

Yes—if privacy is your priority. Whoogle returns Google’s results without tracking, ads, or personalization. It lacks some advanced features (like Maps integration) but is ideal for users wanting to avoid profiling.

? Is Whoogle completely free?

Yes—Whoogle is open-source under the MIT License, so it’s free to use, modify, and self-host. There are no subscription fees or paid tiers.

Top Alternatives

Google Search Search Google

Bing Search Google

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Tool Info

Pricing Free/Open Source

Category Search Engines

Platform Self-Hosted

Pros

⊕ Zero user data collection
⊕ Open-source MIT License
⊕ Lightweight and fast performance
⊕ No mandatory JavaScript requirement

Cons

⊖ Relies on Google’s backend for results
⊖ Requires self-hosting (or trust in public instances)
⊖ Limited advanced features vs. Google
⊖ Potential rate limits with high usage