Discover the Top 10 On-Premise Chat Solutions that can give you full control of your app’s security, infrastructure and data, without compromising on the messaging
It’s 2024 and instant messaging and chat apps have become an integral part of modern business messaging. However, with the rise in data breaches, it’s crucial to prioritize control over data exchanges. This is why winning businesses choose to host their apps on their own premise.
If you are into a business that deals with sensitive information, then unparalleled security and privacy must be your topmost priority. Worry not, for on-premise chat servers are at your help.
According to Markets and Markets, the self-hosting collaboration market is set to grow at a CAGR of 12.7%, reaching a market size of USD 85.8 billion by 2026.
Join me in exploring the readymade chat system that can be hosted on your own premise/ cloud servers and their unique benefits to make the right choice for your business.
Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
What is on premise messaging?
On-premises messaging refers to a type of messaging system where the servers and infrastructure for sending, receiving, and storing messages are hosted within an organization’s own physical location or data center. This means that the messaging service is deployed and operated internally, rather than relying on external or cloud-based messaging servers..
What Is an On-premise Chat Solution?
On-prem chat solution is a type of communication platform that is installed and hosted locally on your organization’s premises, rather than being hosted on a public cloud platform or remote data center.
This typically means that your business has full control over the infrastructure, hardware, and software applications, including their performance, security, and maintenance.
Why Should You Choose On-premise Chat Solution For Your Business?
Well, there are hundreds of explanations about this deployment option across the internet. But the one question that you’ll need an answer for is – Is on-premise chat solution right for your business?
Let’s rule it out
#1 Enhanced Security
Building a self-hosted private chat server can be your best option if you are looking for enhanced data security for your messenger application.
You will basically have complete control over your data, so you can implement your own security protocols to ensure it stays secure.
#2 Customization
Your business is unique and it requires specific chat requirements to deliver the experience your target users expect.
In this case, you can customize or personalize the chat solution as much as you want to meet your specific needs
Guess what? you can also integrate it with other business applications, and add unique features that your users will love.
#3 Compliance to Industry Regulations
If your organization must comply with strict data privacy and security regulations, then hosting your enterprise messaging app on your own can be your ideal choice.
This means, you have full control over your communication data, which can help you meet compliance requirements as per your need.
#4 A great alternative to cloud-based chat solutions
If you need to build a messenger for business and government, or healthcare organization, financial institution, or indeed a company with legacy systems that cannot be easily integrated with cloud-based chat solutions, then creating your own chatting server would be a wise thing to do.
How Do On-premise Chat Solutions Work?
Setting up an scalable on-premise solution for your dedicated chat apps typically means that you are hosting your app/ software on your own servers that are physically located with your organization’s own premises.
This means that the organization has complete control over the chat solution and the data it generates. So let’s say you have hosted your app on your own server, you can expect the following to happen.
When a user sends a message through the on-premise chat solution, the message is securely transmitted within the organization’s network without leaving the premises.
This ensures that the communication data remains private and secure.
Let me explain how self-hosting work in a few simple steps:
1. Installation
The first step in setting up a server on your own premise.
This can typically be done by downloading the software from the vendor’s website and following the installation instructions.
2. Configure the solution as per your brand/ business requirements
Once the software is installed, it needs to be configured to work with the organization’s network and infrastructure.
This can include setting up user accounts, creating channels, and configuring security settings.
3. Register your users
Once the software is installed and configured, users can access it through a web browser or a dedicated app installed on their devices.
They can then log in using their credentials and start using the chat solution to communicate with their colleagues.
4. Access app data from your own servers
All communication data generated through the ready-made chat solution is stored on the organization’s servers. This includes messages, files, and other media exchanged between users.
5. Customize the security & privacy of your app
Hosting your platform on-premise typically offers robust security features for your chat apps, such as two-factor authentication, encryption, and access controls, to ensure that the communication data remains private and secure.
6. Set up a maintenance routine
As with any software, your chat solution requires ongoing maintenance to ensure that they continue to function properly. This can include applying software updates, monitoring system performance, and addressing any issues or errors that arise.
Simple right?
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Benefits Of On-premise Chat
Here are some benefits that you will get when hosting your app on your own servers:
- Full Control: You have full control over the installation, data privacy, and security. Since the server is installed on your own premises, you have all the control over its usage and storage.
- Access at Any Time: You can access your data whenever you need to without any restrictions. You won’t have to worry about third-party users accessing your data since it is on your server.
- Private and Secure: When you build your own enterprise messaging infrastructure and host it on your premise so that your chat messages are transferred among clients under your server within your firewall, ensuring your conversations are kept within your secure firewall, and your data is preserved.
- Low Latency: Since your chat app system doesn’t have to traverse time through the cloud, there gap between data exchange is very minimal. This can result in a faster and more efficient communication experience for your app users.
What is an example of an on-premise platform?
Some of the popular on-premise solutions include Microsoft Windows Server, VMware vSphere, Oracle Database, Cisco Unified Communications Manager (CUCM), SAP ERP and IBM WebSphere Application ServerMicrosoft Office
Best 10 On-premise Chat Solutions For Your Business
Here is a list of the best on-premise chat solutions for business are MirrorFly, Wire, Mattermost, Zulip, LetsChat, Element, Jitsi, Rocket.chat, Troopmessenger, Tox. Each platform has its own unique set of features, pricing, and capabilities.
Let’s look at some of these listed platforms, Now that we’ve fairly discussed developing your chat app and the benefits you will get, it’s time we quickly check on the best on-premise messaging software in the market.
1. MirrorFly
MirrorFly is a global leader in offering in-app communication solutions to all scales of businesses. Its core products include real-time chat, video and voice SDKs along with Chat UI Kit.
MirrorFly has a unique business model in which it adapts to the Twin model solution. This means, you can get both a Self-hosted chat solution for a one-time purchase and SaaS (Software as a Service for a monthly subscription).
Highlights of the on-prem solution:
- Offers 100% customization and scalability
- Hire a dedicated support team
- Lets you build a white-label messaging app lets you add your own brand colors, company logo and personalized business elements
- Complete ownership of security, infrastructure, hosting and maintenance.
Key features:
- Chat, voice and video calling (VoiP calling)
- File sharing and storage
- Multi-platform development
- Push notifications
- On Premise XMPP Chat Solution
- Tech support (Hire dedicated team)
- 99.999% uptime SLA
- Average response time less than 100 ms
- Ultra-low latency
Platform Compatibility: Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android
Countries: USA, Canada, India and other countries around the globe.
Industries served:
Social and dating, Telecommunications, Finance/Banking, Fitness, Information Technology, Large scale enterprises, Healthcare, Manufacturing, Media, Automotive, Food and Beverage, Transportation, Energy and Utilities, Astrology, Mental Health Consultation, Home Interiors, Building Consultation, E-learning and more.
2. Wire
Wire is a secure messaging and collaboration platform that lets you host your platform on-premises that require more control over their communication data.
Highlights of the on-prem solution:
- End-to-end encryption for enhanced data privacy and security
- Real-time messaging and collaboration tools
- Comprehensive control over the communication infrastructure
Key features:
- Audio and video calling
- Screen sharing and co-browsing
- File sharing and storage
- Team collaboration tools
- Customized integrations with other business applications
Platform Compatibility: Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android
Countries: USA, UK, Germany
Industries served: Technology, Financial services, Healthcare
3. Mattermost
Mattermost is a flexible and secure open-source messaging and collaboration platform designed for enterprises.
It offers self-hosting, cloud, and hybrid deployment options to meet the diverse needs of businesses.
Highlights of on-prem solution:
- Complete control over data privacy and security.
- Customizable and scalable communication solution for enterprises.
- Easy integration with other enterprise applications and services.
Key features:
- End-to-end encryption for secure messaging and collaboration.
- Robust administrative tools for easy management and customization.
- Unlimited message history for seamless collaboration.
- Advanced search and filtering options for finding relevant conversations and content.
Platform Compatibility: Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android.
Countries: USA, India, Germany.
Industries served: Healthcare, finance, education, technology.
4. Zulip
Zulip is a secure chat application that combines the immediacy of real-time chat with the organization of email.
It is open-source, easy to use, and designed to increase team productivity and collaboration.
Highlights of on-prem solution:
- Highly scalable and customizable communication solution.
- Secure and private communication with end-to-end encryption.
- Flexible deployment options to meet the needs of businesses.
Key features:
- Threaded conversations for easy organization and follow-up.
- Advanced search and filtering options for finding relevant conversations and content.
- Customizable notifications to stay informed of important messages.
- Integration with other business applications and services.
- Platform Compatibility: Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android.
Countries: USA, India, Germany.
Industries served: Software development, IT, marketing, sales.
5. Let’s Chat
Let’s Chat is an open-source, self-hosted chat application designed for teams and organizations.
It offers a simple and intuitive interface for real-time communication and collaboration.
Highlights of on-prem solution:
- Easy to deploy and customize according to business needs.
- Secure and private communication with end-to-end encryption.
- Flexible deployment options.
Key features:
- File sharing and synchronization for seamless collaboration.
- Integration with other business applications and services.
- Threaded conversations for easy organization and follow-up.
- Multi-language support for global teams.
Platform Compatibility: Windows, macOS, Linux.
Countries: USA, India, Germany.
Industries served: Education, healthcare, non-profit organizations.
6. Element
Element is a secure, open-source messaging and collaboration app that enables businesses to communicate and collaborate in real-time with each other.
It is built on the Matrix protocol, which offers secure end-to-end encryption for all messaging and collaboration activities.
Highlights of on-prem solution:
- Complete control over data privacy and security.
- Customizable communication solution for businesses.
- Enables Secure On-Premise Collaboration
Key features:
- End-to-end encryption for secure messaging and collaboration.
- Robust administrative tools for easy management and customization.
- Unlimited message history for seamless collaboration.
- Advanced search and filtering options for finding relevant conversations and content.
Platform Compatibility: Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android.
Countries: USA, India, Germany.
Industries served: Technology, finance, healthcare.
7. Jitsi
Jitsi is an open-source, secure, and free video conferencing platform that offers high-quality audio and video calls, screen sharing, and live streaming features for individuals and teams.
Highlights:
- Jitsi offers a self-hosting solution for businesses that want to host their own video conferencing infrastructure.
- The platform provides secure and encrypted communication features, as well as recording and live streaming options.
Key Features:
- High-quality audio and video calls
- Screen sharing and live streaming options
- Customizable meeting room backgrounds and themes
- End-to-end encryption for user privacy
- Integration with other business tools
Platform Compatibility: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS
Countries: United States, India, United Kingdom and other countries around the world
Industries served: Education, Healthcare, Finance and more.
8. Rocket.chat:
Rocket.chat is a free and open-source communication platform for team collaboration, providing chat solutions that can be hosted securely on your own premise.
It lets you take control of their conversations and ensure data privacy and security.
Highlights of on-prem solution
- Versatile communication platform
- Offers robust security features with two-factor authentication
- Easy integration with other business applications
- Low-latency communication for faster response times
- Complete control over communication data for enhanced data privacy and security
Key features:
- Private 1:1 messaging
- Video and audio calls
- Screen sharing and file sharing
- Multi-platform support
- LDAP integration
- Multiple language support
Platform Compatibility: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android and iOS
Countries: United States, Germany and Brazil
Industries served: Healthcare, Education and IT
9. Troop Messenger
Troop Messenger is a secure business communication platform that provides a secure chat solution that can be hosted on-premise.
This lets you take complete control of their data, and enables secure and reliable team communication.
Highlights of on-prem solution:
- Ensures data privacy and security
- Offers multi-device sync for seamless communication
- Allows for easy integration with other business applications
- Provides low-latency communication for faster response times
Key features:
- Instant messaging and group chat
- Audio and video calls
- Screen sharing and file sharing
- Whiteboard collaboration
- Task management and to-do lists
Platform Compatibility: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android and iOS
Countries: United States, India, United Kingdom and more.
Industries served: Healthcare, Education and IT
10. Tox
Tox is an open-source, decentralized, and secure communication platform that provides encrypted messaging, voice and video calls, and file sharing features for individuals and teams.
Highlights of on-prem solution:
- Tox gives full control of communication infrastructure.
- The platform provides secure messaging and voice and video calls, as well as file sharing and screen sharing options.
- Offers complete control over user data and privacy.
Key Features:
- End-to-end encryption for messaging, voice, and video calls
- Screen and file sharing options
- Customizable user interface
- Cross-platform availability on Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS
- No ads or user tracking
Platform Compatibility: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS
Countries: United States, Germany and United Kingdom
Industries served: Technology, Education and Finance
Conclusion
In conclusion, when you host your app on your own premise, it offers businesses greater control, customization, and security over their communication platforms.
In my opinion, MirrorFly, Rocket.chat and Troop Messenger are great options for businesses looking for flexibility in customization, robust security features, and easy integration with other business applications.
Ultimately, the right on-premise chat platform will depend on your specific business needs and priorities. Take the time to evaluate your options carefully and choose the solution that will best support your communication and collaboration needs.
Need more help with choosing the best on-premise chat provider for your app? Post in your comments below, my team and I will get back to your queries soon!
Frequently Asked Questions:
What are the benefits of using an on-premise chat server?
On-premise hosting gives you full control over your chat app’s data, hardware, software and security infrastructure. Thereby, you can configure, upgrade or make changes to your app as per your user demands and business goals.
Also, on-premise hosting lets you access your app without the need for internet connection or any external sources, drastically reducing the cost of hosting.
Which are some popular on-premise chat solutions for business?
MirrorFly, Wire, Mattermost, Zulip, Let’s chat, Element, Jitsi, Rocket Chat, Troop Messenger and Tox are some of the most popular chat solutions that can be used to build chat features in business apps.
How does an on-premise chat solution differ from a cloud-based solution?
On-premise software is installed and runs on a company’s own hardware infrastructure, and is hosted locally, whereas cloud software is stored and managed on the provider’s servers, and accessed through a web browser or other interface.
On-premise chat solution refers to the type of hosting where your app is installed on your own hardware infrastructure. On the other hand, cloud hosting refers to deploying your app on a third-party server, and is accessed through a web browser.
Also, an on-premise chat solution gives you complete control over your chat app’s data, hardware and software. Whereas in a cloud-solution, your vendor will take care of your platform’s hosting and maintenance.
What is the meaning of on-premise?
“On-premises” or “on-prem” is a way of installing software directly on users’ computers using CDs or USB drives, while “off-premises” means the installer can be downloaded from the internet.
For example,
A company installs a customer relationship management (CRM) software on servers within its own data center. This is considered an on-premises CRM solution.
Is MirrorFly’s on-premise chat solution secure?
Yes, the MirrorFly on-premise chat solution is completely secure. It is considered the most safe and secure self-hosted in-app chat, voice, and video solution. By enabling end-to-end encryption, AES128 security standards, IP whitelisting, token authentication, SSL certification, and other safety measures, MirrorFly tops the list. And moreover, their SDKs are compatible with privacy regulation laws like HIPAA, GDPR, and OWASP.
How do I install and set up the on-premise chat solution?
The installation and setup process of an on-premise chat solution varies from provider to provider. Here is the most simple way of integrating MirrorFly.
1. Sign up and purchase a license key.
2. Download SDKs and code
3. Integrate with your app.
4. Connect the backend to your server.
5. Customize it depending on your needs.
6. Launch your app.
By following these simple procedures, you can easily integrate on-premise chat solutions with any size of app.
Can we customize the chat solution to fit our branding?
Yes, you can get complete customization of a chat solution to fit your branding needs from a few providers. For example, MirrorFly, ApphiTect, and Agora provide 100% customizable chat SDKs to fit your needs. You can purchase SDKs from these providers and customize them as you wish.
What is on-premises vs cloud?
In On-premise hosting, the data centers are installed on the company’s own hardware infrastructure. Whereas cloud servers are owned and managed by providers and are accessed through interfaces and web browsers.
What is hosted vs on-premise?
A hosted solution lets you access your app’s data from anywhere, anytime. It can make your systems work as per your convenience. Whereas on-premises data centers are built in the organization’s premises.
Is on-premise more secure than cloud?
Cloud security is safer than on-premise when you do not have enough tools or human resources to invest. Cloud security has segmentation whereas on-premise servers have user workstations. And most phishing and email attacks happen through workstations.
Hi,
I have crossed your article just now. I just want to know does that on-premise chat solution help in business. if yes let me know how in short term
Yes, an on-premise chat solution should be supported for businesses in a few ways..they are,
customization
integration
security & privacy
scalability& flexibility
readability
So it must be helpful to your business for more information you can check here.
hi team,
Is there any possible way to develop a secure and scalable chat platform with MirrorFly? Because, I am a mobile app developer and wanted to learn more about it.
Hello Kupta,
Of course there is lot of paths to develop your applications. Our self-hosted solution allows developers to easily build a fully customizable chat application with the features they need and security they desire for a one-time license cost.
Good post, nice writing, one question: What technical stacks are used to build self-hosted chat platforms? As I’m building a chat app and looking for tech stacks.
Thanks a lot Tim, for finding my article good and of use. Glad that you liked it. Well, coming over to your question on the tech stacks to help build your project in the best way possible, I have categorized different frameworks and languages below:
Front-end language: HTML, Javascript, React, Vue, Angular.
Backend language: Node.js, Express.js, Python, Ruby.
Database: MySQL and MongoDB.
Communication protocols: WebSockets, WebRTC.
Security Protocols: AES-256, SSL, TLS.
Industry-regulations: GDPR and HIPAA.
Hello team, your blog is well-written and informative. I can get all the information here. But, I have a doubt on which is the best customizable chat app provider?
Thanks a lot, Liam, for such a kind response to my article. Really glad that you found my post to be informative. And to answer your question, MirrorFly is an ideal choice when it comes to choosing the best customizable chat SDK provider. Because we offer 100% customizations on 150+ call and chat capabilities and 100+ UI components so that you can build communication apps the way you need.
Have a great day!
Can you list out the secure chat providers in 2023? And if you have any reference, can you share?
Thank you for such positive feedback on my blog post. Really appreciate your comment. To answer your question, there are several secure chat providers in 2023 that you can opt for like Signal, Wickr, Threema, Wire, and many others. And to get detailed insight on these, you can check our post exclusively on secure chat apps.
Nice blog, How chat solution works? Can you please guide me on this?
A chat app works by creating web chat rooms that allows users to chat with each other in a hassle-free way. A chat app allows users to send and receive messages, calls, or video messages in real-time. If you wish to learn more about it, please talk to our experts.
Good Article! Thanks for sharing I am also looking for the on-premise chat solution for my business. Thanks for sharing these great ideas with us!
Thank you Yaakesh. happy to hear your words.