Top Open-Source, Self-Hostable Genealogy Tree Web Software Alternatives to MyHeritage as of January 3, 2025

macos - Recommendation for genealogy software for OS X? - Ask Different

For genealogists seeking robust, privacy-focused, and customizable alternatives to commercial services like MyHeritage, open-source, self-hostable genealogy tree web software presents an excellent solution. These platforms empower users with full control over their data, extensive customization options, and a collaborative environment supported by active communities. Below, we explore the most credible and feature-rich options available as of January 3, 2025, synthesizing information from leading sources to provide a comprehensive overview.

1. Webtrees

Website: https://www.webtrees.net/
Source Code: https://github.com/fisharebest/webtrees

Overview

Webtrees stands out as one of the most mature and actively maintained open-source genealogy platforms. Designed specifically for self-hosting, it offers a web-based environment that rivals the functionality of commercial services.

Key Features

GEDCOM Support: Full compatibility with GEDCOM files ensures seamless data import and export, facilitating integration with other genealogy tools.
Collaborative Features: Multiple users can contribute to a single family tree, making it ideal for collaborative family history projects.
Privacy Controls: Robust privacy settings allow users to manage access to sensitive information, ensuring data security.
Customizable Themes: A variety of built-in themes and the ability to create custom themes enhance the visual appeal and usability of the platform.
Multilingual Support: Support for multiple languages broadens its accessibility to a global audience.
Active Development: Regular updates and a strong community ensure that Webtrees remains feature-rich and up-to-date.

Installation and Setup

Setting up Webtrees requires a web server environment with PHP and a MySQL database. The installation process involves downloading the software from the official repository, configuring the environment, and running the installation script. Comprehensive documentation is available to guide users through each step.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

Highly customizable and feature-rich.
Strong focus on privacy and data control.
Active community support and regular updates.
Supports collaborative genealogy projects.

Cons:

Requires technical knowledge to set up and maintain.
The user interface, while functional, may not be as polished as some commercial alternatives.

2. Gramps Web

Website: https://www.grampsweb.org/
Source Code: https://github.com/gramps-community/gramps-web

Overview

Gramps Web is the web-based extension of the renowned Gramps desktop application. It brings the powerful features of Gramps to a collaborative, web-accessible platform, making it suitable for both individual and group genealogical research.

Key Features

Interoperability with Gramps: Seamlessly integrates with the Gramps desktop application, allowing users to switch between desktop and web interfaces effortlessly.
GEDCOM Import/Export: Ensures compatibility with other genealogy software through full support of the GEDCOM standard.
Media Support: Attach photos, documents, and other media to individual records, enriching the family tree with visual and textual information.
Advanced Data Analysis: Tools for analyzing relationships, timelines, and other genealogical aspects enhance research capabilities.
Customizable Reports: Generate detailed and customizable reports and charts to suit specific research needs.
Self-Hosting: Full control over data by hosting the application on personal or organizational servers.
Active Development: Ongoing updates and a committed community ensure the platform remains up-to-date and feature-rich.

Installation and Setup

Installing Gramps Web involves deploying it on a compatible web server, setting up the necessary environment, and configuring database connections. Detailed installation guides are provided to assist users through the setup process.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

Powerful features inherited from Gramps desktop.
Supports collaborative genealogy projects.
Emphasizes data privacy and control.
Active community and regular updates.

Cons:

Requires technical expertise for setup.
The initial learning curve may be steep for new users.

3. Liberu Genealogy

Website: https://github.com/liberu-genealogy/genealogy-laravel

Overview

Liberu Genealogy is a modern, feature-rich open-source genealogy platform built with Laravel 11, PHP 8.3, and other cutting-edge technologies. It is designed to be scalable and user-friendly, making it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced genealogists.

Key Features

Family Trees with DNA Matching: Enables users to build detailed family trees and connect with relatives globally through DNA matching.
GEDCOM Import and Export: Supports the industry-standard GEDCOM format, ensuring compatibility with other tools.
Multi-Tenancy Trees: Allows the creation of separate family trees for different branches, ensuring organized exploration of lineages.
Display Options: Offers interactive tree visualizations, detailed forms, and tables for a flexible user experience.
Subscriptions and Premium Features: Provides subscription options for access to premium features and advanced analytics.
API Support and Data Security: Robust API support for data import/export and stringent security measures to protect user data.
User-Friendly Interface: Comprehensive CRUD operations and customizable forms enhance usability and data management.

Installation and Setup

Installing Liberu Genealogy involves cloning the repository, setting up the environment variables, installing dependencies via Composer and NPM, migrating the database, and running the server. The process is streamlined with clear instructions available in the repository.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

Built with a modern technology stack, ensuring robustness and scalability.
Feature-rich with advanced functionalities like DNA matching and multi-tenancy.
Offers both free and premium features to cater to different user needs.
Strong emphasis on data security and privacy.

Cons:

May require technical knowledge for setup and customization.
Subscription-based premium features might not appeal to all users.

4. MGeurts Genealogy

Website: https://github.com/MGeurts/genealogy.git

Overview

MGeurts Genealogy is another modern, open-source genealogy platform built with Laravel 11 and a suite of modern web technologies. It emphasizes ease of installation, user-friendly interfaces, and active maintenance.

Key Features

Laravel and Modern Stack: Utilizes Laravel 11, Laravel Jetstream 5, Livewire 3, Alpine.js 3, Tailwind CSS, and TallStackUI for a robust and responsive interface.
Family Member and Relationship Recording: Designed to accurately record family members and their relationships, facilitating comprehensive family tree management.
Installation and Setup: Provides clear installation instructions, simplifying the setup process for users.
Testing and Contributing: Includes testing scripts and encourages community contributions through issues and pull requests.
Documentation: Built-in documentation accessible through the demo project aids users in understanding and customizing the software.

Installation and Setup

The installation process for MGeurts Genealogy involves cloning the repository, configuring environment variables, installing dependencies via Composer and NPM, running database migrations and seeders, and starting the server. The provided documentation ensures a smooth setup experience.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

Modern technology stack ensures a responsive and scalable platform.
Clear and comprehensive installation instructions.
Encourages community contributions, fostering continuous improvement.
User-friendly interface with comprehensive CRUD operations.

Cons:

Limited information on premium features and subscription models.
May require technical expertise for advanced customization.

Comparison of Top Alternatives

Feature Comparison

Feature/Software	Webtrees	Gramps Web	Liberu Genealogy	MGeurts Genealogy
Open Source	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Self-Hostable	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
GEDCOM Support	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Collaborative Features	Yes	Yes	Yes	Limited
Privacy Controls	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Media Management	Yes	Yes	Yes	Limited
Ease of Use	Moderate	Moderate	High	High
Active Development	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes

Conclusion

Choosing the right open-source, self-hostable genealogy tree web software depends on your specific needs, technical expertise, and preferences regarding customization and collaboration. As of January 3, 2025, Webtrees emerges as the most robust and actively maintained option, offering extensive features, strong privacy controls, and a collaborative environment. For users already familiar with the Gramps desktop application, Gramps Web provides a seamless transition to a web-based platform with powerful analysis tools.

Liberu Genealogy and MGeurts Genealogy present modern, feature-rich alternatives with a focus on scalability and user-friendly interfaces. These platforms are particularly suitable for users seeking advanced functionalities like DNA matching and multi-tenancy, combined with the flexibility of open-source customization.

Regardless of the choice, these open-source platforms offer significant advantages over commercial services like MyHeritage, including full data control, enhanced privacy, and no recurring subscription costs. By selecting a platform that aligns with your genealogical research needs and technical capabilities, you can effectively manage and expand your family tree while contributing to and benefiting from vibrant open-source communities.