Back to Blog
team@tinypod.app

Self-Hosting Joplin Server: Note Sync Backend

Joplin Server syncs your Joplin notes across devices. End-to-end encrypted note sync with your own server as the backend.

joplinnotessyncencryption

What Is Joplin Server?


Joplin Server is the sync backend for Joplin, a popular open-source note-taking app. It syncs your notes, notebooks, and attachments across all your devices.


Joplin Client Features


Notes

  • Markdown editor with rich preview
  • Notebooks and sub-notebooks
  • Tags
  • To-do lists (checkboxes)
  • Attachments and images
  • Web clipper (browser extension)

    • Security

  • End-to-end encryption
  • Note history (versioning)
  • Conflict resolution

    • Apps

  • Desktop: Windows, macOS, Linux
  • Mobile: iOS, Android
  • Terminal: CLI app

    • Why Self-Host the Server?


    Joplin can sync via Dropbox, OneDrive, or Nextcloud. Joplin Server adds:

  • Faster sync
  • Sharing notes and notebooks
  • Publishing notes as web pages
  • Better conflict handling
  • No third-party dependency

    • Joplin vs Obsidian vs Standard Notes


  • Joplin: Open-source, E2EE, sync server available
  • Obsidian: Local files, plugins, no sync server needed
  • Standard Notes: E2EE-first, simpler, subscription model

    • Deployment


    1. Deploy Joplin Server on TinyPod

    2. Configure Joplin desktop/mobile to sync with your server

    3. Enable E2EE

    4. Notes sync across all devices


    Resources: 1 CPU, 256 MB RAM with PostgreSQL.


    Joplin Server gives you the convenience of cloud note sync with the privacy of self-hosting and end-to-end encryption.