Why Ocelot-Cloud?

Citizens and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) rely on digital infrastructure, such as servers for data storage, messaging and video calling. However, none of the existing options for acquiring such infrastructure meets all of the following needs:

  • privacy
  • convenience
  • long-term security
  • option for customization

Let’s look at some typical approaches, why they fall short, and what a better solution looks like.

Option 1: External Cloud Services

Although outsourcing to an external cloud offers the convenience of taking over server management and adopting a pay-as-you-go model, there are serious trade-offs.

  • Unpredictable terms and conditions: sudden price increases, feature removals, even bankruptcy
  • Vendor lock-in: migrating data from one vendor to another can be slow, costly and technically challenging
  • Opaque infrastructure: data resides in unknown locations and may be subject to unauthorized inspection
  • Limited freedom: cloud services are closed off to users, which limits customization and integration

Takeaway: To maintain control of our data, we need self-hosted infrastructure.

Option 2: Do-It-Yourself Hosting

Although setting up and running your own digital infrastructure gives you full control, it requires in-depth system administration expertise and knowledge of each installed piece of software and its specifics. It also requires constant updating and backups, which are typically out of reach for most individuals and SMEs.

Takeaway: Automation must replace manual maintenance.

Option 3: Self-Hosting Suites with Restricted Free Tiers

Many self-hosting platforms position themselves as “free,” but their no-cost tiers often exclude essential features or impose tight limitations. As soon as the software reaches a certain quality level, basic capabilities tend to be locked behind a paywall, creating practical lock-in and limiting flexibility.

Takeaway: A capable freemium tier is essential.

Solution: Enter Ocelot-Cloud

To address these issues, we offer a platform built on clear and fair principles:

  • Generous Freemium Edition — essential functionality at no cost, with a fully usable base product and upgrade options only for advanced capabilities.
  • Convenience — installing apps in Ocelot-Cloud is as easy as installing apps on a smartphone
  • Automated upkeep — updates and backups handled for you.
  • Self-hosting freedom — deploy on hardware you control.
  • Open App Store — anyone can contribute and install community apps for a diverse ecosystem.
  • No-lock-in Premium Edition — Optional advanced features that support development. Switch back to the Freemium Edition at any time with minimal effort.