Self-hostable

Self-hosting means installing and operating the product yourself, rather than logging in to a version the vendor runs. You choose the server, manage updates and keep the data where you decide. Botpress, Dust and Mermaid are examples of tools that offer a self-hosted option.

The main reasons are control and compliance. A company with strict rules about where data may be stored, or one that wants to avoid sending customer data to a third party, may need it. It can also help when you want to customise the software deeply.

The cost is effort. Someone must install, secure, back up and update the system, and fix it when it breaks. Without a technical person, a hosted plan is usually the safer choice. Some vendors also limit features in the self-hosted edition.

• Is self-hosting a complete edition, or does it lack features of the hosted version?
• Which licence applies, and is it free for commercial use?
• What servers, skills and ongoing maintenance does it require?
• Does the vendor offer paid support if something goes wrong?