- LibreOffice Online is not a TDF-hosted service, but software that you can deploy yourself.
- There are several ways to install it, from compiling code to pre-built Docker images.
- It is primarily intended for personal use or development, not business use without professional support.
- Companies like Collabora and Kopano offer ready-to-deploy versions with additional support.
LibreOffice Online is a tool that has generated a lot of discussion among those looking for alternatives to cloud-based document editing without relying on large companies like Google or Microsoft.
But the information available about how it actually works, its limitations, and how to use it is often a bit confusing or scattered. That's why, in this article, we'll break it all down so you understand and can decide if it's worth setting up on your own.
What exactly is LibreOffice Online?
LibreOffice Online is not a web application like Google Docs, nor is it a ready-to-use tool accessible directly from a browser by simply visiting a website. It is actually a server service that allows users to view and edit documents online collaboratively, but it must be deployed by the user or company themselves.
This service is built on the same source code as the LibreOffice project, so it inherits many of its functionalities, but its use requires a specific infrastructure: file system, authentication, load balancing, etc. , as it does not include them on its own. Furthermore, familiarity with collaboration tools is recommended for better integration.
It is designed to integrate into public or private cloud solutions (such as Nextcloud or ownCloud) and function as part of a broader ecosystem of collaborative tools.
Why isn't LibreOffice Online publicly hosted?
You might be wondering: why doesn't The Document Foundation (TDF) offer a ready-to-use version like Google or Microsoft do? The answer is simple but important.
TDF is a non-profit organization that maintains the development of LibreOffice, but not its mass deployment in the cloud. That would require integrating additional technologies such as the file system, user authentication, session management, etc. All of that is beyond the scope of the project and its main objective.
Therefore, deployment is left to providers, companies, or organizations that can do it , either for their own use or to offer the service to third parties. Some examples are Collabora and Kopano, which we will discuss later.
Important Limitations and Warnings
One of the most confusing points is knowing when it's safe to use LibreOffice Online and when it's not . The key is that the version you can download is designed for personal or development use , not for enterprise production environments. To learn more about the context of digital solutions, you can consult the information and communication technology section.
In fact, if the system detects more than 10 documents open at once or more than 20 simultaneous connections, a visible warning will appear informing users that this usage is not officially supported . Even so, the service continues to function.
TDF does not offer end-user technical support for any of its tools, nor does it maintain official binaries ready for installation. The goal is to avoid misunderstandings or expectations that cannot be met with a database maintained by volunteers.
Options for deploying LibreOffice Online
If you're curious and want to try this tool, you'll see there are multiple ways to set it up . Some are simpler than others, and they come with different levels of support and updates.
1. Collabora Online Development Edition (CODE)
CODE is the development version maintained by Collabora , one of the main companies actively contributing to the development of LibreOffice Online. It is free, and although it lacks official support, it is fairly up-to-date.
It offers packages for Debian, Ubuntu, CentOS, openSUSE, and also Docker images ready to go with just a couple of commands . You can even request a demo if you want to try a more stable and supported version.
2. Official LibreOffice Online Docker
Another option is to use the official Docker image provided by TDF . You can easily download it with the command:
docker pull libreoffice/online
However, one thing must be clear: this image hasn't been updated in years and is unlikely to receive any further improvements, so use it with that in mind. For those interested in digital systems , keeping these considerations in mind is crucial.
3. Kopano Packages
Kopano is another company that developed a collaborative solution with LibreOffice Online integrated . It has installers for Debian 8/9 and Ubuntu 16.04, but these haven't been updated since 2018. Currently, their use is not recommended in modern environments.
4. Ready integrations (Nextcloud, ownCloud, EGroupware)
One of the most user-friendly ways to use LibreOffice Online is through integration with platforms like Nextcloud, ownCloud, or EGroupware . These tools offer a web interface where you can upload documents and edit them directly using Collabora Online or CODE.
In some cases, they come pre-configured , or allow you to easily replace CODE with Collabora with full support. For a summary of the advantages of connectivity in work environments, see more in the connectivity benefits section.
Can I compile a version without the unsupported usage warning?
The answer is yes. LibreOffice Online is free software , and you can modify its source code to remove that warning and adapt it to your needs. Each version includes information about the code from which it was compiled and instructions on how to do so.
However, if you remove the warning and want to use it outside your organization, you may need to change the project name to comply with TDF's trademark policies. This makes it clear that you, not the foundation, are providing the support.
Where to get professional support?
If you're part of a company and need a professional LibreOffice Online solution, it's best to use certified developers or their business partners . Some of these include:
- COLLABORATE (Collaborate Office and Collaborate Online)
- IPC (Custom-developed LibreOffice and LibreOffice Online)
These partners offer stable builds, technical support, security updates, and custom customizations. Furthermore, all their work is incorporated back into the parent project, improving the tool for everyone.
Additional and curious integrations
LibreOffice Online has also managed to integrate into educational systems such as Moodle, messaging platforms like Mattermost, and various browser extensions such as the LibreOffice Editor for Chrome , which detects DOC, XLS, or PPT files and opens them directly in the cloud.
Some web hosting platforms even offer LibreOffice Online integrated as part of their services, for example:
- GMX Online Office
- OffiDocs
- Hostiso.com with Nextcloud
LibreOffice Online isn't a traditional web application, but it offers great possibilities if you have sufficient technical knowledge or want to work with free software in your personal cloud. Although TDF doesn't provide a hosted, ready-to-use version, thanks to companies like Collabora or tools like Docker, almost anyone can have their own online document editing system these days.
Whether you're learning, experimenting, or even setting up your own home office solution, this tool is well-suited to those who prioritize freedom, data control, and technological flexibility.
