Locker

What it does

Locker is an open-source, self-hostable file storage platform that lets you use your own storage backend—local disk, AWS S3, Cloudflare R2, or Vercel Blob—instead of paying for Dropbox or Google Drive. It provides a full file management interface with upload, organize, share, and search capabilities, all running on your own infrastructure. The platform includes a virtual bash shell for navigating files via commands like ls, cd, and grep, and supports multi-store replication across multiple backends per workspace. Share links can be password-protected, time-limited, and download-capped. Upload links allow others to send files without an account.

Who it is for

Locker is built for power users, developers, and small teams who want full control over their file storage. It appeals to those who already have S3 buckets or other cloud storage and want a self-hosted frontend to manage files without recurring subscription fees. The product is particularly suited for technical users comfortable with deploying a Node.js application and managing a PostgreSQL database. The target audience includes startups, engineering teams, and individuals who prioritize data sovereignty and want to avoid vendor lock-in.

Why it matters

Traditional cloud storage services like Dropbox and Google Drive charge recurring fees and impose limits on storage and sharing. Locker eliminates these costs by letting you bring your own storage—you only pay for the infrastructure you choose. It also addresses privacy concerns: no third party reads your files, and you control access, encryption, and data residency. The open-source nature means you can audit the code, customize it, and avoid surprise pricing changes. For teams already using S3, Locker provides a familiar file management experience without the overhead of managing multiple tools.

Launch signal

Locker was launched on Hacker News as a Show HN with the title "Stop paying for Dropbox/Google Drive, use your own S3 bucket instead." The project is open source on GitHub under the repository zmeyer44/Locker. The website offers a registration page and a GitHub link for deployment instructions. The launch appears to be early-stage, with no disclosed funding or team size beyond the founder handle "Zm44."

Brand and naming

The name "Locker" evokes a secure, personal storage locker—simple, memorable, and directly tied to the product's function. The tagline "Your files, Your cloud, Your rules" reinforces the self-hosted, control-focused positioning. The brand emphasizes openness (open source, no vendor lock-in) and technical sophistication (virtual bash shell, tRPC type safety). The visual design on the website is clean and developer-oriented, with a terminal-inspired interface mockup.