🗂️ Setup Baserow
Deploy Baserow open-source no-code database on Ubuntu with Docker — Airtable alternative you self-host.
📦 Resources & Setup Scripts
Grab the automated bash script from GitHub to follow along with the video.
Quick Install:
wget https://raw.githubusercontent.com/mhmdali94/Docker/main/analytics/baserow/baserow-ubuntu.sh
chmod +x baserow-ubuntu.sh
sudo bash baserow-ubuntu.shTutorial Steps
1 Download the Script
wget https://raw.githubusercontent.com/mhmdali94/Docker/main/analytics/baserow/baserow-ubuntu.sh2 Make it Executable
chmod +x baserow-ubuntu.sh3 Run the Installer
The script installs Docker if needed, then deploys Baserow with PostgreSQL automatically.
sudo bash baserow-ubuntu.sh4 Access the Web UI
Open your browser and navigate to:
http://<your-server-ip>5 Create Your First Table
Complete the setup wizard, create a workspace, and build your first table with fields and views.
Ports Used
| Port | Purpose |
|---|---|
| 80 | HTTP Web UI |
| 443 | HTTPS |
| 5432 | PostgreSQL (internal) |
Overview
Baserow is an open-source no-code database platform — a self-hosted alternative to Airtable that lets you create relational databases, manage data, and build internal tools through a clean spreadsheet-like interface. By hosting it yourself you keep full control over your data with no per-seat pricing.
Why Use It
Baserow gives teams a structured, collaborative database interface without any SQL knowledge. Unlike NocoDB (which wraps existing databases), Baserow provides its own PostgreSQL-backed storage with a polished UI built specifically for non-developers. It auto-generates a REST API for every table, making it great as a headless CMS or lightweight backend for apps — all self-hosted with no row limits.
When You Need It
Who Should Use It
Real Use Cases
Main Features
How to Use After Installation
Security Best Practices
Ports and Firewall Notes
Port 80 (HTTP) and optionally 443 (HTTPS) for the web UI and API. PostgreSQL on 5432 is internal only. Use a reverse proxy on 443 for HTTPS. The REST API is available at the same port — protect it with token auth.
Backup and Maintenance
Common Mistakes
Troubleshooting
Alternatives
Direct alternatives: NocoDB (wraps existing DBs, lighter), Grist (stronger formula engine), Mathesar (PostgreSQL-native). Cloud: Airtable (best UX but expensive per seat), Notion Databases, Smartsheet (enterprise).
When Not to Use It
Don't use Baserow if you already have an existing database you want to expose — NocoDB is better for wrapping existing PostgreSQL/MySQL. And if you need complex business logic embedded in the interface, AppSmith or Budibase (app builders) give you more control.
PrismaTechWork Professional Help
PrismaTechWork provides end-to-end infrastructure services — from initial deployment and security hardening to ongoing monitoring, automated backups, and dedicated support. Whether you need a single-server setup or a multi-site network, our team ensures your infrastructure is built right, secured properly, and maintained reliably.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is Baserow different from NocoDB?
NocoDB connects to existing databases (PostgreSQL, MySQL, SQLite) and provides a spreadsheet UI on top. Baserow manages its own PostgreSQL storage and is designed as a product-grade Airtable replacement with more polish and a dedicated REST API.
Does Baserow have a REST API?
Yes — Baserow auto-generates a fully documented REST API for every table. Create an API token from your account settings, then use it with the endpoint `https://your-baserow.com/api/database/rows/table/TABLE_ID/`.
Can I import data from Airtable?
Yes — export your Airtable base as CSV, then import it into Baserow. Baserow also has an Airtable importer that reads the Airtable share URL directly, though complex formulas and some field types may need manual adjustment.
Does Baserow support real-time collaboration?
Yes — multiple users can edit tables simultaneously. Changes appear in real time for all connected users via WebSocket. You can see other users' cursors and edits as they happen.
Can I use Baserow as a headless CMS?
Yes — create tables for your content (blog posts, products, pages), then fetch data via the REST API in your frontend. The API supports filtering, sorting, and pagination — making it a solid headless CMS backend.
Does Baserow support formulas like Airtable?
Yes — Baserow has formula fields with 30+ functions (IF, CONCAT, SUM, DATE_DIFF, etc.) plus rollup and lookup fields for aggregating data from linked tables.
How many rows can Baserow handle?
Baserow has no artificial row limits when self-hosted. Performance depends on your PostgreSQL hardware — tables with 100,000+ rows work well on a properly resourced server. For millions of rows, add PostgreSQL indexes on queried fields.
How do I upgrade Baserow?
Run `docker compose pull && docker compose up -d`. Baserow runs database migrations automatically on startup. Back up PostgreSQL before any upgrade. Check the Baserow changelog — some upgrades deprecate API fields.