DocManFu

Deploy guide

Private document management on a home server.

A mini PC or retired desktop is plenty for a household document archive, and it keeps everything inside your own walls.

Installation stepsDeployment guide

Why it fits

Why run DocManFu on a home server

  • Documents never leave your home network unless you choose
  • Run local AI with Ollama on hardware you already own
  • No ongoing software or hosting fees

Before you install

Setup notes

  1. 1Install a Linux distribution, Docker Engine, and Docker Compose v2
  2. 2Use a VPN or reverse proxy with HTTPS if you need remote access
  3. 3Keep a backup on a separate drive and another copy offsite
  4. 4Point your scanner at a folder watched by the DocManFu CLI

What you get

The full DocManFu stack on a home server

DocManFu runs as one Docker Compose stack: web app, API, PostgreSQL, Redis, and a background OCR worker. Anywhere Docker Engine and Docker Compose v2 run, DocManFu can run. OCR happens locally, AI is optional and can run locally with Ollama, and your documents stay on storage you control.

git clone https://github.com/DocManFu/DocManFu.git
cd DocManFu
cp .env.production.example .env   # set POSTGRES_PASSWORD and JWT_SECRET_KEY
./prod up -d

Other ways to self-host

Synology NASUnraidTrueNAS SCALEProxmoxVPSDocker Desktop

What will you store?

BillsTax documentsMedical recordsReceiptsInsurance documentsBank statementsWarranties and manualsPay stubsHome and property documentsSchool records

Your documents. Your rules.

Ready to master the paper pile?

One Docker Compose command puts a private, searchable document vault on hardware you control. Prefer not to self-host? A hosted version is coming soon—ask @DustinDavis on X.

Start self-hostingView on GitHub ↗