Secure and Open-Source Alternatives to Zoom for Video Conferencing

Zoom has become incredibly popular as a video conferencing app worldwide. However, there have been concerns about its security and privacy. If you're looking for a more secure and private alternative, here are some open-source video chat options to consider.

1. BigBlueButton

BigBlueButton is a free web conferencing system designed for online classes. It doesn't have a dedicated desktop or mobile app, so you have to host and attend web conferences over an HTML5 browser like Chrome or Firefox. Despite this limitation, BigBlueButton works smoothly and efficiently.

You don't need to register to attend a meeting, just like Skype and Zoom. It offers features like public and private chat, screen sharing, file sharing, whiteboard for annotation, and breakout rooms. Breakout rooms allow you to group participants into smaller groups for collaboration.

BigBlueButton doesn't have a paid model, but you can consider Elos (formerly known as Mconf) as the paid version. It starts at $5/person and provides extra features like cloud recording and monthly reports.

BigBlueButton

2. Jitsi Meet

Jitsi Meet allows you to attend and host meetings without registration. It offers features like public and private chat, screen sharing, recording, and even a “Blur my Background” feature reminiscent of Skype. One unique feature of Jitsi Meet is the ability to share YouTube videos and start a live YouTube stream within the app.

While Jitsi Meet is convenient for informal meetings, there are concerns about moderation controls and end-to-end encryption. However, if you're looking for a one-off webinar, Jitsi Meet is a good platform to consider.

Jitsi Meet

3. Jami

Jami is a dedicated video chat app with desktop and mobile apps. It operates on a peer-to-peer communication model, offering end-to-end encryption. However, initiating a video conference requires adding contacts individually, which may not be ideal for quick and spontaneous meetings.

Jami

4. ezTalks Cloud Meeting

ezTalks is an open-source video conferencing app similar to Zoom. It offers features like gallery view, local video recording, screen sharing, and group polls. It also provides 1GB of cloud storage for each free user, allowing you to record meetings. Additionally, ezTalks supports webinars for a large number of participants.

While ezTalks is free, it lacks a Linux app and requires downloading the desktop app to host or join a meeting.

ezTalks Cloud Meeting

5. Linphone

Linphone is an open-source app specifically designed for VoIP calls. It works with any SIP provider and allows you to configure your SIP ID in the app. Linphone supports group video calls and offers features like handling multiple audio and video calls simultaneously and call recording. However, the maximum limit for group conferencing is eight people.

Linphone

6. Riot

Riot is an end-to-end encrypted communication tool that functions similar to Slack or Microsoft Teams. It offers features like chat, groups, video conferencing, file sharing, and more. Riot uses the Matrix protocol and can communicate with users on Slack as well. The free variant of Riot stores data on a public Matrix server, but for a custom workspace, you can opt for a paid version.

Riot

These open-source alternatives provide secure and private options for video conferencing. Consider your specific needs and preferences when choosing the right alternative for you.