PocketBase

Overview of PocketBase

PocketBase is an open source backend solution that packages everything you need for modern web and mobile applications into a single executable file. This innovative tool combines a realtime database, user authentication, file storage, and an admin dashboard in one portable package. Built with Go, PocketBase serves as a complete backend framework that eliminates the complexity of managing multiple services and dependencies for your projects.

Developed by Gani Georgiev, PocketBase targets developers building applications with popular frontend frameworks like React, Vue, Svelte, Angular, and Flutter, which are often used with IDEs and static site generators. The platform provides a simple REST-ish API and includes built-in SDKs for JavaScript and Dart, making it accessible for developers across different technology stacks. As an open source backend solution, PocketBase offers a compelling alternative to services like Firebase while giving you complete control over your data and infrastructure.

How to Use PocketBase

Getting started with PocketBase is straightforward – simply download the single executable file for your platform and run it. The application automatically sets up an embedded SQLite database and starts serving on localhost. You can then access the built-in admin dashboard to create collections, manage users, and configure file storage. For integration, import the PocketBase SDK in your JavaScript or Dart application, connect to your instance, and begin making API calls to create, read, update, and delete records. The platform supports realtime subscriptions, allowing your frontend applications to receive instant updates when data changes in the database.

Core Features of PocketBase

1. Realtime Database – Embedded SQLite with live subscription capabilities for instant data synchronization
2. Built-in Authentication – Complete user management system with email/password and OAuth support
3. File Storage – Integrated file management for handling uploads, downloads, and media assets
4. Admin Dashboard – Convenient web interface for managing data, users, and application settings
5. REST API – Simple REST-ish API with SDKs for JavaScript and Dart development

Use Cases for PocketBase

• Building realtime web applications with live data updates
• Creating mobile apps with Flutter or React Native backends
• Developing prototypes and MVPs quickly without complex infrastructure
• Self-hosted alternative to Firebase and similar BaaS platforms
• Small to medium projects needing database, auth, and file storage
• Educational projects and learning full-stack development
• Internal tools and admin panels for business applications

Support and Contact

For support and documentation, visit the official PocketBase documentation. You can also explore the live demo to experience the platform firsthand. Follow development updates on X (Twitter) for the latest features and community discussions.

Company Info

PocketBase is developed by Gani Georgiev as an open source project. The platform is completely free to use and modify under its open source license, making it accessible to developers worldwide without licensing costs or restrictions.

Login and Signup

Since PocketBase is self-hosted software, there's no central login or signup process. You download and run the executable on your own infrastructure. Access the admin dashboard through your local instance, and manage users directly within your application using the built-in authentication system.