Development
Self-host Renovate on a VPS
Automated dependency updates, self-hosted.
Keep dependencies current by opening pull requests automatically, running entirely on your own infrastructure.
Why self-host Renovate?
Self-hosting Renovate means it can read your private repos and registry credentials without a third party seeing them.
How to install Renovate
- 1
Provision a VPS
Pick a Debian/Ubuntu template and get root SSH in about a minute.
- 2
Install the runtime
Install Node.js + scheduler or CI job.
- 3
Deploy the application
Net what you need from the project’s official source and run it.
- 4
Put it behind TLS
Reverse-proxy with Nginx and issue a Let’s Encrypt certificate.
- 5
Add it to your backups
Include the data directory and database in your backup routine before you rely on it.
Practical tips
- Give Renovate its own database user with rights only on its own schema.
- Reverse-proxy Renovate and terminate TLS at the proxy so certificates are managed in one place.
- Take a VPS snapshot before major upgrades so you can roll back cleanly.
- Keep Renovate patched — most self-hosting incidents are unpatched software.
Frequently asked questions
- How much RAM does Renovate need?
- Plan on 1–2 GB for typical use; add headroom if you expect many concurrent users.
- What stack does Renovate run on?
- Node.js + scheduler or CI job.
- Can I run other things on the same VPS?
- Yes — size the plan so Renovate plus your other workloads fit in RAM with room to spare.
Looking for something else? Popular alternatives include Dependabot (GitHub), Snyk (hosted), Depfu — browse all app guides.