Wildduck

Self-Hosted

Open-source email server with full self-hosting control and modern features

Overview

Wildduck is a scalable, open-source email server designed for self-hosting, giving you complete ownership of your email infrastructure. It supports IMAP, SMTP, and POP3 protocols, with built-in spam filtering (via Rspamd), email aliases, catch-all addresses, and a REST API for programmatic management. Deployment is streamlined using Docker containers, including pre-configured setups for Redis, MongoDB, and other dependencies. It integrates with third-party webmail clients (like Rainloop) and offers features like auto-replies, mailbox quotas, and DKIM/DMARC support—ideal for privacy-focused users escaping proprietary email services.

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

Key Features

Supports IMAP, SMTP, POP3 protocols
REST API for programmatic email management
Docker-based deployment with pre-configured stacks
Built-in spam filtering (Rspamd integration)
Email aliases, catch-alls, and auto-replies

Frequently Asked Questions

? Is Wildduck hard to install?

Wildduck uses Docker containers for easy deployment—official docs provide a docker-compose setup that includes all dependencies (Redis, MongoDB, Rspamd). Basic Docker knowledge is enough to get it running, but configuring DNS records (MX, SPF, DKIM) requires some email infrastructure understanding.

? Is it a good alternative to Gmail Workspace?

Yes, if you prioritize privacy and control over integrated apps. Wildduck offers core email features (aliases, filtering, auto-replies) without data mining, but lacks Gmail’s built-in productivity tools (Docs, Calendar). It integrates with third-party tools to fill gaps.

? Is it completely free?

Wildduck is open-source under the MIT License—100% free to use, modify, and distribute. There are no paid tiers or hidden costs; all features are available for self-hosted deployments.

Top Alternatives

Gmail Workspace Search Google

Microsoft Outlook 365 Search Google

Tool Info

Pricing Open Source

Category Communication - Email - Complete Solutions

Platform Self-Hosted

Pros

⊕ Full control over email data and privacy
⊕ No subscription fees or vendor lock-in
⊕ Scalable for individuals and small teams
⊕ Simplified deployment via Docker

Cons

⊖ Requires DNS configuration knowledge (MX, SPF, DKIM)
⊖ No built-in webmail (needs third-party integration)
⊖ Regular maintenance for security updates and spam rule tuning