Karakeep is the project behind this setup. Karakeep needs Docker, a database and search. Its optional AI layer should come after saving and retrieving ordinary bookmarks has been proven.
- Recommended method
- Docker Compose
- Difficulty
- Intermediate
- Typical time
- 30–60 minutes
What you need
- Docker and Docker Compose
- Persistent storage for bookmarks and archives
- A secure public URL only if remote access is needed
- Optional AI credentials or an Ollama server later
Set it up
Create the deployment folder
Download the current compose file from the official repository.
mkdir karakeep-app && cd karakeep-app wget https://raw.githubusercontent.com/karakeep-app/karakeep/main/docker/docker-compose.ymlCreate strong secrets
Set KARAKEEP_VERSION, NEXTAUTH_URL, NEXTAUTH_SECRET and MEILI_MASTER_KEY in .env. Generate new random values instead of using the examples.
Start the services
Launch the stack and create the first account.
docker compose up -dInstall one capture tool
Add a browser extension or mobile app and save a representative link, note, image and PDF.
Test archives before AI
Verify full-text search and a page snapshot. Add an AI provider only if automatic tags would solve a real problem.
Reserved for launch
Verify it works
Do not call the setup finished until these small tests pass:
- Saved items survive a container restart
- Full-text search finds a phrase inside a page
- A page archive remains readable
- The database and saved assets are both backed up
Protect the service
- Replace every example secret
- Use HTTPS for remote access
- Remember that hosted AI providers receive submitted content
- Pin versions if you want controlled upgrades
Official resources
Videos are supplemental. Use the official documentation for current commands, versions and security guidance.