Quick answer
Apache OFBiz is a free, open source project in the “ERP + CRM Suites” group, built with Java. It is released under Apache-2.0, has 1,130 GitHub stars, and its repository was last updated in Oct 2026. You can self-host it on your own server. Verified 14 October 2026.
ERP + CRM Suites
Apache OFBiz
Apache open source enterprise automation suite with CRM and party management.
GitHub stars
1,130
Last repo update
Oct 2026
License
Apache-2.0
Technology
Java
What is Apache OFBiz?
Apache OFBiz is a long-running Java suite with customer and party management, orders, catalog and accounting components.
Highlights
- Apache Software Foundation project
- Party and customer management
- Order and catalog processing
- Apache-2.0 license
Best for
Developers and enterprises that need a customizable Java ERP/CRM foundation.
Check before you commit
A framework-style suite that needs experienced Java developers to adapt.
Self-Hosted (Open Source Edition)
Install on your own server • No per-user software fee • Full control & privacy
Self-Host on My Server →Official Website & Docs
We did not find an official hosted plan in the project documentation. Read the docs before deciding.
Open the docs →🏠 Self-Hosted Version
You download the source code and run it on your own server or VPS (for example Hostinger, AWS or DigitalOcean).
Installation
This is the first step of the official Quick start on Unix-like systems. The README then walks through loading data and starting OFBiz.
Open the official install guide →
Requirements: The full JDK 17 (not just a JRE) with JAVA_HOME set. An external MySQL or PostgreSQL database is optional.
Commands above come from the project's own documentation (checked 14 October 2026). Versions change, so confirm against the official guide before running anything on a production server.
Need a server to host it?
Docker, Node, Python, Java and similar stacks usually need a VPS where you can install your own software. A small VPS is enough to start, and you can upgrade later. Hostinger offers both shared web hosting and VPS plans.
Affiliate disclosure: this is an affiliate link. If you buy through it we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. CRMs are listed independently of any hosting partner. Learn more.
Before real customers go in: read the security and backup checklist →
🌐 Official Website & Documentation
We could not confirm an official hosted plan for Apache OFBiz in its documentation. Self-hosting is the main route.
Third-party providers may offer managed hosting. Always check their terms and that you can export your data.
Self-Hosted vs Hosted by Someone Else
| Factor | Self-Hosted | Managed / third-party |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | No software fee for the open edition. You pay for hosting. | Depends on the provider you choose. |
| Data privacy & control | Data stays on your server. | Data lives on the provider's servers. |
| Maintenance | You install updates and run backups. | The provider handles it. |
| Best for | Teams with a developer or sysadmin, and data-sensitive companies. | Teams who want a fast start and no server work. |
No technical person on the team
→ Ask a developer or managed host to set it up
Avoid running a server you cannot maintain.
Team with a developer or sysadmin
→ Self-Hosted
Lower running cost and full customization.
Data-sensitive or regulated work
→ Self-Hosted on your own server
You decide where data lives and who can access it.
Alternatives to Apache OFBiz
Odoo Community
All-in-one business suite with a capable CRM app.
55k • LGPL-3.0
ERPNext
Full open source ERP with a strong CRM module.
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IDURAR ERP CRM
ERP, CRM and invoicing built with the MERN stack.
8.9k • AGPL-3.0
Ever Gauzy
Open business management platform covering ERP, CRM, HRM, ATS and project management.
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Dolibarr ERP CRM
Simple, modular ERP and CRM for small businesses, freelancers and foundations.
7.7k • GPL-3.0
WebVella ERP
Pluggable open source ERP and CRM on ASP.NET Core and PostgreSQL.
1.5k • Apache-2.0
Compare Apache OFBiz with other open source tools
Frequently asked questions about Apache OFBiz
Is Apache OFBiz free and open source?
Apache OFBiz is released under Apache-2.0. Always read the LICENSE file in the official repository before you use, modify or redistribute it. License details were verified on 14 October 2026.
What technology does Apache OFBiz use?
Apache OFBiz is built with Java.
Can I self-host Apache OFBiz?
Yes. You can download the source from the official GitHub repository and run it on your own server or VPS. Requirements: The full JDK 17 (not just a JRE) with JAVA_HOME set. An external MySQL or PostgreSQL database is optional.
Does Apache OFBiz have a hosted or cloud version?
We could not confirm an official hosted plan in the project documentation. Check the official website for the latest options.
Who is Apache OFBiz best for?
Developers and enterprises that need a customizable Java ERP/CRM foundation.
What are good alternatives to Apache OFBiz?
Similar open source projects in this directory include Odoo Community, ERPNext, IDURAR ERP CRM. Compare them in the ERP + CRM Suites group.
Data verified 14 October 2026 from the project's public repository and documentation. Details change, so check the official sources. See our disclaimer. Found a mistake? Tell us.