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PocketBase - open source backend in 1 file

Your backend in a single file

PocketBase is an open source Go backend that gives you everything you need to build modern applications. Download a single executable and you’re ready to go—no complex setup, no dependencies, no configuration files.

Get started in minutes

Download the executable and launch your backend with a single command

Installation guide

Install PocketBase as a standalone app or integrate it as a Go library

REST API reference

Explore the built-in REST API for authentication, CRUD operations, and realtime subscriptions

Extend with Go

Use PocketBase as a Go framework to build custom business logic

Everything you need, built-in

PocketBase combines essential backend services into a single portable package:

Embedded SQLite database

You get a full-featured database with realtime subscriptions out of the box. No separate database server required—everything runs in a single process.

File and user management

Built-in authentication with email/password, OAuth2 providers, and file storage with automatic image resizing. User management and access control work seamlessly together.

Admin dashboard UI

Manage your database schema, browse records, and configure settings through a beautiful web interface. The admin UI is included in the executable—no separate installation needed.

REST-ish API

A clean, intuitive API that handles authentication, CRUD operations, file uploads, and realtime subscriptions. Connect from any platform using the official JavaScript or Dart SDKs.

Two ways to use PocketBase

Standalone executable

Download the prebuilt binary and run ./pocketbase serve. Perfect for rapid prototyping or production deployments.

Go framework

Import PocketBase as a library and extend it with your custom business logic. Build a single executable with all your code included.
PocketBase is under active development. Full backward compatibility is not guaranteed before reaching v1.0.0.

What you can build

PocketBase works great for:
  • SaaS applications - User authentication, data storage, and file uploads in one package
  • Mobile backends - Native support for iOS and Android via the Dart SDK
  • Real-time apps - Built-in WebSocket support for live data updates
  • Admin panels - Automatic CRUD interfaces with customizable access rules
  • Prototypes - Go from idea to working backend in minutes

Open source and free

PocketBase is licensed under MIT, which means you can use it for anything—personal projects, commercial applications, or paid services. The entire codebase is available on GitHub.

View on GitHub

Star the repo, report issues, or contribute to the project

Join the community

Get help, share your projects, and connect with other developers

Ready to start?

Follow the quickstart guide to launch your first PocketBase instance in under 5 minutes.

Quickstart guide

Install PocketBase and create your first collection

Build docs developers (and LLMs) love