Set up your OurShell server

Sync server

1 · Unlock 2 · Database 3 · Address 4 · Sign-ups 5 · Admin 6 · Done

Enter the setup code

This proves you're the person installing the server. The installer printed it, and it's also in the server log (docker logs ourshell-server).

Setup code

Database

OurShell stores its data in PostgreSQL. Everything users sync is encrypted on their devices first, so the database only ever holds ciphertext.

The installer already configured the database:

PostgreSQL URL The user needs permission to create tables. A localhost address means this container, not your computer; use host.docker.internal for a database on the Docker host.

Server address

The address people enter in the OurShell app (Account & sync → Server).

Public URL optional Shown on the admin page so you can hand it out. Leave empty if you're not sure yet. Get a free HTTPS certificate from Let's Encrypt

Domain Email optional

The domain must already point at this server, and port 443 must reach this container from the internet. Skip this if you use your own reverse proxy (Synology, Caddy, nginx, Cloudflare Tunnel).

Who can create an account?

The first account anyone creates becomes the server's owner, so sign up yourself right after setup.

Invite onlyNew accounts need an invite code from the admin page. Recommended for a server reachable from the internet. AnyoneAnyone who can reach the server can sign up. Fine on a private network. Nobody (just me)Only the first account can be created.

Devices per account 0 = unlimited.

Admin password

Protects this server's admin page (/admin), where you change settings, create invites and manage users. It's separate from your OurShell account.

Password Confirm

At least 10 characters.

Your server is ready

Save this master key somewhere safe. It encrypts this server's data at rest. Database backups can't be restored without it, and it's not shown again.

Starting the server…

Next steps

In the OurShell app, open Account & sync, enter as the server, and sign up. That first account becomes the owner.
Open the admin page to create invite codes for other people.

OurShell · Self-hosting guide