CryptPad
Verified working Sep 17, 2026
A browser-based office suite built around client-side encryption.
CryptPad is an open-source collaboration suite for creating and sharing documents in the browser while encrypting content before it leaves the user’s device. It is positioned as a privacy-focused alternative to conventional online office tools, with real-time collaboration handled through web apps that require JavaScript for in-browser encryption.
Why it stands out
- Designed around client-side encryption rather than adding privacy as an afterthought.
- Open-source AGPL licensing makes the software auditable and self-hostable in principle.
- Combines collaboration and encrypted storage in one suite instead of focusing on a single document type.
- Works through the browser, reducing the need for desktop app deployment.
Good to know
- JavaScript must be enabled; encryption is performed in the browser.
- Users who need non-browser workflows may find the web-first model limiting.
- The public CryptPad.fr service and the self-hosted software may differ in available limits, storage, and administration options.
Photos
Privacy-conscious teams need shared documents and workspaces without exposing content to the service operator. Draft notes, documents, or project materials collaboratively in a web browser. Use a hosted collaborative office tool when installing desktop software is impractical. Adopt an open-source alternative for organizations avoiding proprietary cloud suites.
End-to-end encrypted browser-based collaboration, open-source codebase under AGPL licensing, web-based document workspace, multilingual interface messaging, and client-side encryption performed through JavaScript in the browser.
Alternative listings
Self-hostable office editing for teams that need data control.
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Similar sites elsewhere
- Nextcloud — nextcloud.com
- Etherpad — etherpad.org
- ONLYOFFICE — onlyoffice.com
- Proton Drive — proton.me/drive
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