StartOS is a graphical server operating system optimised for self-hosting. It aims to make running a personal server as easy as using a phone: everything is managed from a browser-based interface, with one-click app installation and no command line required. Built by Start9, the project has a strong focus on Bitcoin and Lightning applications, and is released under the MIT licence with an active development cycle (start-os v0.4.0.1).

Key Features

• Browser-based graphical OS — Full server management from a clean web interface, no SSH or terminal required
• One-click app installs — Install self-hosted apps from a curated marketplace directly in the browser
• Bitcoin and Lightning integration — First-class support for running Bitcoin nodes and Lightning applications on your own hardware
• Built-in Tor support — Expose services privately and securely through Tor by default
• App sandboxing — Each app runs isolated with its own security model, reducing risk on a single server
• Automated updates — System and app updates are handled through the dashboard
• Dedicated hardware option — Ships as pre-built hardware from Start9, or install it yourself on compatible x86_64/ARM64 devices

Why Use StartOS?

StartOS is for people who want a sovereign, self-owned server with the polish of a consumer product. Its unique niche is the Bitcoin ecosystem: if you want to run your own node, connect Lightning wallets, and self-host the surrounding apps, StartOS offers an unusually smooth experience compared with manually wiring together daemons.

Use Cases

• Running your own Bitcoin full node and Lightning infrastructure at home
• Self-hosting personal apps (Nextcloud, Bitwarden, media) on a dedicated device
• Users who want a server they manage from a browser rather than a terminal

Platform

x86_64 and ARM64; dedicated hardware from Start9 or community-supported devices (e.g. Raspberry Pi)

Licence

MIT

Website

start9.com

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See how StartOS compares with other home server operating systems in our full guide: CasaOS vs YunoHost vs StartOS — Which Home Server OS Is Right for You?