Exit-Saas Blog

Expert guides on self-hosting, open-source alternatives, and breaking free from subscription lock-in. Learn how to save thousands while maintaining full control of your data.

Trends & Analysis

Best AI Tools You Can Self-Host (ChatGPT Alternatives)

Self-host AI models like Llama, Mistral, and Stable Diffusion. Run ChatGPT-quality language models locally for privacy, unlimited usage, and zero API costs.

Decision Frameworks

Comparing CRM Platforms: HubSpot vs Self-Hosted Alternatives

Detailed comparison of HubSpot vs self-hosted CRM options like EspoCRM and SuiteCRM. Feature parity, pricing breakdown, and migration considerations.

Technical Guide

How to Deploy Your Own Analytics Suite in Under 10 Minutes

Step-by-step guide to self-hosting privacy-focused analytics with Plausible or Umami. Track metrics without Google's surveillance tax.

Decision Frameworks

Docker 101 for Self-Hosting: Complete Beginner's Guide

Learn Docker fundamentals for self-hosting. Understand containers, images, volumes, and docker-compose with practical examples for deploying real applications.

Trends & Analysis

GDPR Compliance Made Simple with Self-Hosted Tools

Simplify GDPR compliance by self-hosting business tools. Avoid complex Data Processing Agreements, reduce third-party processors, and maintain complete data control.

Trends & Analysis

The Great SaaS Exodus: Why Companies Are Self-Hosting Again

Document the growing trend of companies leaving SaaS platforms for self-hosted alternatives. Real case studies, cost breakdowns, and the future of enterprise software.

Financial Analysis

The Hidden Costs of SaaS: How Subscriptions are Killing Your Profit Margins

Uncover the invisible expenses of SaaS subscriptions: price escalations, data egress fees, and vendor lock-in costs that silently destroy profitability.

Decision Framework

Managed vs. Self-Hosted: Which is Right for Your Business?

Compare managed cloud, self-hosted, and hybrid deployment models. Calculate TCO, evaluate security trade-offs, and choose the right infrastructure strategy.

Migration Guides

How to Migrate from Slack to Mattermost in One Weekend

Complete step-by-step guide to migrating your team from Slack to Mattermost. Export data, import channels, and save thousands annually without losing history.

Tool Comparisons

n8n vs Zapier: Build Unlimited Workflows for $10/Month

Compare n8n and Zapier workflow automation platforms. Discover how self-hosted n8n provides unlimited executions and workflows without per-task pricing.

Technical Guide

Nextcloud: Your Complete Google Workspace Replacement

Replace Google Workspace with self-hosted Nextcloud. Get file storage, calendar, contacts, and collaborative editing for $15/month instead of $144/user/year.

Tool Comparisons

Plausible vs Google Analytics: Privacy-First Analytics Showdown

Compare Plausible and Google Analytics side-by-side. Discover why privacy-focused analytics provide better insights without surveillance, cookies, or GDPR headaches.

Decision Frameworks

Security Audit: SaaS vs Self-Hosted (Real Numbers)

Compare security posture of SaaS platforms vs self-hosted infrastructure. Real breach data, compliance costs, and vulnerability analysis for informed decisions.

Technical Guide

Self-Hosting GitLab: Complete CI/CD Setup Guide

Deploy your own GitLab instance with complete CI/CD pipelines. Replace GitHub Actions and CircleCI with unlimited self-hosted runners for free.

Decision Frameworks

Should You Self-Host? TCO Calculator Breakdown

Calculate total cost of ownership for self-hosting vs SaaS. Real numbers comparing infrastructure, labor, and hidden costs over 5 years.

Trends & Analysis

Building a Startup Tech Stack for Under $100/Month

Complete startup infrastructure for $100/month using self-hosted tools. Code hosting, CI/CD, communication, analytics, and more without breaking the bank.

Security

Top 5 Open-Source Alternatives to Slack for High-Security Teams

Protect sensitive communications with self-hosted Slack alternatives. Compare Mattermost, Rocket.Chat, Zulip, and more for enterprise-grade security.

Trends & Analysis

The True Cost of 'Free': How Open Source Sustains Itself

Examine open-source business models and sustainability. Understanding how 'free' software gets funded helps you choose reliable tools and support maintainers.

Decision Frameworks

When NOT to Self-Host: Honest Assessment

Critical evaluation of when self-hosting is the wrong choice. Email servers, payment processing, and other services better left to SaaS providers.

Financial Strategy

Why Self-Hosting is the Best Financial Move for Startups in 2026

Discover how self-hosting open-source alternatives can save your startup thousands in SaaS fees while maintaining full control of your data and infrastructure.