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Deploy Ghost Blog

Before using the one-click template, here is a minimal Docker Compose file for self-hosting Ghost.

If you're new to Docker Compose, check out our guide on how to self-host a Docker Compose app. You can also browse more examples in our Docker Compose library.

Self-host Ghost with Docker Compose (minimal)​

services:
  ghost:
    image: ghost:latest
    ports:
      - "2368:2368"
    environment:
      database__client: mysql
      database__connection__host: db
      database__connection__user: ghost
      database__connection__password: ghostpass
      database__connection__database: ghost
      url: http://localhost:2368
    volumes:
      - ghost-content:/var/lib/ghost/content

  db:
    image: mysql:8
    environment:
      MYSQL_ROOT_PASSWORD: rootpass
      MYSQL_DATABASE: ghost
      MYSQL_USER: ghost
      MYSQL_PASSWORD: ghostpass
    volumes:
      - dbdata:/var/lib/mysql

volumes:
  ghost-content:
  dbdata:

Deploy Ghost Blog on Hostim.dev (One-Click)

Ghost is a modern blogging platform with a built-in editor, membership features, and newsletter tools. With Hostim.dev, you can deploy Ghost in one click – fully preconfigured with MySQL, volumes, and HTTPS.

✍️ Write, publish, and manage your own blog – no infrastructure setup needed.

Try it Yourself

Guest project runs for 1 hour. Log in to save and extend to 5 days.

Why Host Ghost on Hostim.dev?​

  • One-click Docker deployment
  • Built-in MySQL
  • Persistent storage
  • Automatic HTTPS
  • Real-time logs & metrics

What's included​

ResourceDetails
Appghost image
DatabaseMySQL (auto-provisioned)
Volume/var/lib/ghost/content
DomainFree *.hostim.dev subdomain
SSLLet’s Encrypt (auto-enabled)
Port2368

How to Deploy​

  1. Go to your Hostim.dev dashboard.
  2. Click Create Project → Use a Template.
  3. Select Ghost Blog.
  4. Choose a resource plan.
  5. Deploy.

FAQ​

Where does Ghost store posts, images, and themes?

All content is stored in /var/lib/ghost/content, backed by a persistent volume.

Does Ghost require MySQL?

Yes. The official Docker image only supports MySQL/MariaDB in production.

How do I set the site URL?

Set the url environment variable to your final public domain, including https://.

How do I back up a Ghost site?

Export posts via the Admin UI and back up both the MySQL database and the content volume.

Why can't I log into /ghost?

Make sure the URL matches your configured url environment variable.

Can I upload custom themes?

Yes. Upload themes directly in the Admin panel under Design → Themes.

Does Ghost support newsletters?

Yes, Ghost includes members, newsletters, and paid subscriptions out of the box.

How do I update Ghost?

Docker: docker compose pull && docker compose up -d Hostim.dev: redeploy the app.

Alternatives​

  • WordPress — classic blogging with plugins
  • Hugo — static site generator
  • WriteFreely — minimalist blogging platform

Source + Docs​

Looking for something else? Browse all templates →

Try it now​

Deploy Ghost Blog Now – in less than 60 seconds