Self-hosted, federated team messaging with E2E encryption
Open Source
E2E Encrypted
Self-Hostable
Signal
Privacy is possible. Signal makes it easy.
Open Source
E2E Encrypted
Zero Knowledge
No Logs
Audited
Free
Completely free. Funded by donations and grants. No ads, no tracking. Donation-supported nonprofit.
Quick Specs
| Open Source | ✓ Yes View code |
|---|---|
| E2E Encrypted | ✓ Yes |
| Zero Knowledge | ✓ Yes |
| Self-Hostable | ✗ No |
| No Logs Policy | ✓ Yes |
| Audited | ✓ Yes |
| Jurisdiction | United States |
| Pricing | Free |
About Signal
Signal is the gold standard for secure personal messaging. Its protocol is battle-tested, open source, and used by journalists, activists, and security professionals worldwide. Messages are end-to-end encrypted by default with no opt-in required.
However, Signal requires a phone number to register, which creates a metadata trail and links your identity to your account. For most organizations, this tradeoff is acceptable given Signal ease of use and widespread adoption—your contacts are more likely to actually use it.
For high-risk organizations where phone number linkage is a concern, consider Element (self-hostable, no phone required) as an alternative for internal team communications, while keeping Signal for external contacts who will not adopt other tools.
However, Signal requires a phone number to register, which creates a metadata trail and links your identity to your account. For most organizations, this tradeoff is acceptable given Signal ease of use and widespread adoption—your contacts are more likely to actually use it.
For high-risk organizations where phone number linkage is a concern, consider Element (self-hostable, no phone required) as an alternative for internal team communications, while keeping Signal for external contacts who will not adopt other tools.
Best For
Any organization needing secure internal communication. Essential for teams discussing sensitive matters, coordinating around vulnerable populations, or operating in adversarial environments.
Security Considerations
A tool is only as effective as its implementation. Consider these factors:
- Configuration matters: Default settings may not match your threat model. Review security options carefully.
- Training is essential: Tools protect nothing if your team doesn't use them correctly or consistently.
- Integration points: Consider how this tool connects with your existing systems and what data flows between them.
- Continuity planning: Ensure you have backup access methods and know the recovery process.
Need help implementing this securely? Take our free assessment or book a discovery call.
Gold standard encrypted messaging. Minimal metadata. Nonprofit with no monetization pressure.
⚠️ Note: Requires phone number. US-based but architecture means minimal data to provide.
Score Breakdown
🔒
Data Access
20/20
Can the provider access your data?
👁️
Transparency
18/20
Can security claims be verified?
🎛️
Control
8/15
Do you own and control your data?
⚖️
Jurisdiction
7/15
What legal protections apply?
💰
Business Model
20/20
Are incentives aligned with privacy?
📊
Track Record
17/10
History of security and trust
💰 Business Model
Nonprofit foundation. Donations and grants only. No monetization of users.