SSelfHostedChat
Installation guide

Install SelfHostedChat on your own server

A new installation is deliberately small: upload the package, keep the protection file in place and open the chat in your browser.

1

Download and unpack

Download the latest ZIP. Upload index.php and the supplied .htaccess to the same web directory.

2

Open it through HTTPS

Visit the directory in your browser. SelfHostedChat checks the server and guides you through creating the initial administrator account and access settings.

3

Keep .htaccess in place

On Apache hosting it helps protect the SQLite database and other hidden files from direct downloads.

Before inviting your group

  • Use HTTPS.
  • Make a backup after installation.
  • Test photo uploads and, if enabled, video uploads.
  • Verify the hidden-file protection check in Admin.
  • Test password reset and push notifications on the devices your group uses.
Updating an existing installation

Updates are manual. Make a backup first. For a normal update you usually replace only index.php and keep .htaccess, the SQLite database, media, logos and settings.