NodeBB Hosting on Hostim.dev
NodeBB is an open-source forum platform built on Node.js that runs as a Docker container alongside a PostgreSQL, MongoDB, or Redis database. Self-host it with the Compose file below, or deploy it in one click on Hostim with the database, storage, and HTTPS already wired up.
Before using the one-click template, here is a minimal Docker Compose file for self-hosting NodeBB.
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 NodeBB with Docker Compose (minimal)
services:
nodebb:
image: ghcr.io/nodebb/nodebb:latest
ports:
- "4567:4567"
environment:
database: postgres
postgres__host: db
postgres__port: 5432
postgres__database: nodebb
postgres__username: nodebb
postgres__password: nodebbpass
volumes:
- nodebb-data:/var/lib/nodebb
db:
image: postgres:15
environment:
POSTGRES_DB: nodebb
POSTGRES_USER: nodebb
POSTGRES_PASSWORD: nodebbpass
volumes:
- dbdata:/var/lib/postgresql/data
volumes:
nodebb-data:
dbdata:
Deploy NodeBB on Hostim.dev (One-Click)
NodeBB uses web sockets for real-time discussions and exposes a rich RESTful API. With Hostim.dev, you can deploy NodeBB with Docker and PostgreSQL in one click, fully preconfigured for fast self-hosting.
💬 Create engaging communities with real-time discussions and rich RESTful APIs.
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Why Host NodeBB on Hostim.dev?
- One-click Docker deployment
- Built-in PostgreSQL
- Automatic HTTPS + domain
- Live logs and metrics
- Persistent storage
What's included
| Resource | Details |
|---|---|
| App | ghcr.io/nodebb/nodebb:latest |
| Database | PostgreSQL (auto-provisioned) |
| Domain | Free *.hostim.dev subdomain |
| SSL | Let’s Encrypt (auto-enabled) |
| Port | 4567 |
| Volumes | Persistent storage for NodeBB data |
How to Deploy
- Go to your Hostim.dev dashboard.
- Click Create Project → Use a Template.
- Select NodeBB.
- Choose a resource plan.
- Deploy.
Frequently asked questions
How do I self-host NodeBB with Docker Compose?
Run the 'ghcr.io/nodebb/nodebb:latest' image with a PostgreSQL service, set the 'database' and 'postgres__*' environment variables so NodeBB can reach it, expose port 4567, and mount a volume at '/var/lib/nodebb' for uploads and state. Then open the site and finish the setup wizard.
Where does NodeBB store its data?
Uploads, logs, and internal state are stored in '/var/lib/nodebb'. Forum content itself lives in the database, so a full backup needs both the data volume and the PostgreSQL database.
Does NodeBB require PostgreSQL?
No. NodeBB supports MongoDB, Redis, or PostgreSQL. The Hostim template uses PostgreSQL because it is auto-provisioned and backed up alongside the app.
How do I finish the NodeBB installation?
Visit your site after the container starts, follow the setup wizard, and click Install. The wizard creates the admin account and writes the initial configuration.
How do I configure database credentials on Hostim?
All database variables are injected automatically and visible under Environment Variables in the dashboard. You do not need to edit the Compose file by hand.
Why are NodeBB websockets not working?
The reverse proxy in front of NodeBB is not preserving the WebSocket upgrade headers. Also confirm the 'url' value in the NodeBB config matches the public address you are visiting.
How do I update NodeBB?
With Docker, run 'docker compose pull && docker compose up -d'. On Hostim, redeploy the app — it pulls the latest image and keeps the data volume and database intact.
Alternatives
- Flarum — PHP-based modern forum
- Discourse — feature-rich forum with email digestion
- Lemmy — federated Reddit-style communities
Source + Docs
- GitHub: https://github.com/NodeBB/NodeBB
- Docs: https://docs.nodebb.org
- Website: https://nodebb.org
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