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Firefly III

Firefly III

Firefly III Firefly III is an open-source self-hosted finance manager that focuses on privacy, flexibility, and modern budgeting. It is designed as a web application, making it accessible through any browser once installed on a server, NAS, or Docker container. Unlike traditional desktop tools, Firefly III offers a clean, responsive interface and advanced features without relying on external cloud providers. Everyday use
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Firefly III

Firefly III is an open-source self-hosted finance manager that focuses on privacy, flexibility, and modern budgeting. It is designed as a web application, making it accessible through any browser once installed on a server, NAS, or Docker container. Unlike traditional desktop tools, Firefly III offers a clean, responsive interface and advanced features without relying on external cloud providers.

Everyday use

Using Firefly III feels different from desktop programs: it runs in the browser but remains under full user control. Accounts, budgets, and savings goals are easy to configure, while rules and tags help automate transaction categorization. Reports and charts are interactive, offering a clear overview of spending patterns. Families and small teams often choose Firefly III because multiple users can access the same installation with controlled permissions.

Technical profile

Feature Details
License Free, open-source (Apache 2.0)
Platforms Self-hosted web app (Linux, Docker, NAS devices)
Data storage MySQL/MariaDB or PostgreSQL
Import formats CSV, OFX (via importer tools)
Export formats CSV, JSON
Accounts Multiple accounts supported
Budgets Flexible category-based budgeting
Scheduling Transaction rules and recurring entries
Investments Basic support through accounts and tags
Multi-currency Fully supported with exchange rates
Privacy Self-hosted; full control over data and access

Getting started

Installation usually happens via Docker images or Linux package managers, with community guides available for common NAS systems. Once the system is running, initial setup is guided through a web interface that creates the first admin account. From there, additional users can be added, and categories, tags, and budgets configured.

Who usually uses it

Firefly III is most often used by self-hosting enthusiasts, households that value data privacy, and small groups that need shared access to a budgeting tool. It is also popular among those who want a modern browser-based interface without subscription costs.

Why it’s kept around

Firefly III continues to grow thanks to its active community, modern design, and flexibility. Users keep it around because it combines strong privacy with powerful budgeting features, offering an experience similar to commercial web apps but entirely under personal control.

  • OS: Windows / Linux / macOS
  • Size: 19.38 MB
  • Version: 6.4.0
  • Download: 20,492 stars

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