Rethinking Software Ownership: The Shift from Cloud to Local-First Solutions
The Verge’s article explores the concept of self-hosting and local-first software, presenting an intriguing perspective on software usage’s current and future state. The author’s journey with self-hosting reveals the challenges and potential of moving away from cloud services to more personal and controlled computing environments.
The Challenge of Self-Hosting
The article begins with the author’s attempt to become a self-hoster, using a mini PC to run personal data and applications. Despite efforts and experimentation with Docker, the complexity and technical demands made self-hosting impractical for most users. The ease of using cloud services and downloading apps remains a significant barrier to the widespread adoption of self-hosting.
The Concept of Local-First Software
The discussion then shifts to local-first software, a middle ground between complete self-hosting and total reliance on cloud services. Local-first software aims to provide user-friendly, collaborative, and capable of working offline while still being owned and controlled by the user. Obsidian is cited as an example of an application that embodies this philosophy.
Interoperability as a Solution
Cory Doctorow, an activist and author, suggests that interoperability (Interop) could be a key solution to the limitations of current tech ecosystems. Interop could transform the internet from isolated walled gardens into a vast network of interconnected services. This approach would require legal changes and new software development and usage ideas.
Connecting to Our Software
The article concludes by pondering how we connect to our software in an era where software has connected everything. The answer might not lie in complex self-hosting setups like Plex servers and NAS systems but could be found in embracing local-first software and fostering interoperability.
For a deeper dive into the challenges and possibilities of self-hosting and local-first software, read the full article on The Verge: From the cloud to your computer: a new theory of how software works.