Looking for useful software you can run, inspect, and keep under your control? This monthly shortlist highlights active open-source projects with official repositories and documentation. Last checked: 22 September 2026.
1. Open WebUI — a private AI workspace
Open WebUI gives you a friendly interface for local models and compatible APIs. It is useful for teams that want chat, knowledge bases, and model connections behind their own deployment.
View the GitHub repository · Read the documentation
2. Ollama — run models locally
Ollama makes it easier to download and run language models on your own computer. It is a practical starting point for experimenting with local AI without sending every prompt to a hosted service.
View Ollama on GitHub · Browse the model library
3. n8n — visual workflow automation
n8n connects services and APIs through visual workflows while still allowing code when you need it. Self-hosting is useful for sensitive workflows, internal operations, and repeatable content processes.
View n8n on GitHub · Start with the official docs
4. Penpot — open design and prototyping
Penpot is a browser-based open-source design platform for interfaces, prototypes, and design systems. It is a strong option for teams that want open web standards and self-hosting flexibility.
View Penpot on GitHub · Try Penpot
5. Excalidraw — quick diagrams and whiteboards
Excalidraw is a simple sketch-style canvas for explaining ideas, planning flows, and sharing diagrams. Its open-source project is useful for teams that need a lightweight visual thinking tool.
View Excalidraw on GitHub · Open the web app
6. Open Terminal — controlled AI computer access
Open WebUI’s Open Terminal project explores a way to connect an AI interface with a computer through a controlled terminal service. Treat this as an advanced project: review permissions, isolate it, and never run untrusted commands on a production machine.
How to choose safely
- Read the license and the project’s security guidance.
- Prefer tagged releases over random development builds.
- Run self-hosted tools in a separate account or container.
- Back up data before testing integrations.
- Check the repository’s recent activity and open security advisories.
ToolBino note: these are independent projects, not ToolBino products. ToolBino does not promise uptime, support, or compatibility. Always use the official repository and documentation, and check each project’s license before commercial use.
Last checked 22 September 2026. This page is reviewed monthly and may change as projects, releases, and licenses evolve.