Self-Hosting vs Managed Immich Hosting
Self-Hosting vs Managed Immich Hosting
Immich can be installed and operated in different ways. The main decision users face is whether to self-host or use a managed hosting provider.
Self-Hosting Immich
Self-hosting means you install and maintain Immich on your own server or hardware. This option offers maximum control, but also comes with responsibilities.
- Server setup and configuration
- Security hardening
- Regular updates and backups
- Monitoring and troubleshooting
For technically experienced users, self-hosting can be rewarding. For others, it can quickly become time-consuming and complex.
Managed Immich Hosting
Managed hosting removes the technical burden. The provider takes care of infrastructure, updates, backups and security.
- No server maintenance required
- Professional monitoring
- Automated backups
- Predictable pricing
Security and Reliability
A managed hosting provider typically operates in professional data centers, uses redundant storage and applies security best practices by default.
This can result in higher reliability than many private self-hosted setups.
Which Option Is Right for You?
If you enjoy managing servers and want full technical control, self-hosting may be the right choice.
If you simply want a secure, private photo cloud that works out of the box, managed Immich hosting is usually the better option.
Conclusion
Both options have their place. The key difference is not privacy, but effort. Managed Immich hosting delivers the benefits of open-source software without the operational overhead.