Resources
This resources section provides curated tools, templates, community links, and a glossary to support your digital sovereignty journey. Our recommendations prioritize privacy, user control, and reduced dependency on surveillance-based ecosystems.
As we embrace the principle of progressive implementation, remember that digital sovereignty is a journey, not a destination. Start with the tools that meet your immediate needs, then gradually expand your sovereignty footprint as your confidence grows.
Curated Tools List with Ratings
Our Selection Criteria
We evaluate tools based on five key factors:
- Sovereignty Impact: How effectively it reduces dependency on US-based tech giants
- Usability: How accessible it is for the intended user level
- Features: How comprehensive its capabilities are compared to mainstream alternatives
- Support: How well maintained and documented it is
- Community: How active and helpful the user community is
Essential Level
LibreOffice
Free and open-source office suite with excellent compatibility with Microsoft Office formats. Includes word processing, spreadsheets, presentations, and more.
Key Features: Document compatibility, No telemetry, Offline usage, Regular updates
Best For: Everyday office tasks, Document creation, Spreadsheet analysis
Joplin
Open-source note-taking and organization application with end-to-end encryption. Synchronizes across devices and supports markdown formatting.
Key Features: End-to-end encryption, NextCloud sync, Markdown support, Web clipper
Best For: Note-taking, Knowledge management, Personal documentation
NextCloud
Self-hosted productivity platform offering file storage, sharing, and collaboration. A comprehensive alternative to Google Drive and Microsoft 365.
Key Features: File storage, Calendar/contacts sync, Collaborative editing, App ecosystem
Best For: File storage, Team collaboration, Personal cloud
Business Level
CryptPad
Zero-knowledge collaborative editing platform with real-time collaboration on documents, spreadsheets, presentations, and more.
Key Features: Zero-knowledge encryption, Real-time collaboration, No account required
Best For: Team document editing, Secure collaboration, Sensitive documents
NextCloud Hub
Extended NextCloud platform with additional enterprise features including workflow management, advanced sharing, and administrative controls.
Key Features: Project management, Talk integration, Document workflow, Access control
Best For: Small-medium businesses, Team coordination, Integrated workflows
OnlyOffice
Open-source office suite with superior Microsoft Office compatibility and real-time collaborative editing. Integrates seamlessly with NextCloud.
Key Features: MS Office compatibility, Real-time co-editing, Document management
Best For: Business document needs, Team document collaboration
Individual Level
Obsidian
Knowledge base built on local Markdown files. Creates a network of interconnected notes for advanced personal knowledge management.
Key Features: Knowledge graph, Local files, Plugins ecosystem, Markdown support
Best For: Advanced note-taking, Knowledge networks, Research organization
Syncthing
Open-source, peer-to-peer file synchronization tool that securely synchronizes files between devices without a central server.
Key Features: No central server, End-to-end encryption, Version control, Cross-platform
Best For: File synchronization between personal devices, Offline backup
Standard Notes
End-to-end encrypted note-taking application with extended features for knowledge organization and long-term data ownership.
Key Features: End-to-end encryption, Long-term data ownership, Simple interface
Best For: Secure note-taking, Sensitive information, Cross-platform notes
Enhanced Level
Self-hosted NextCloud
Fully self-hosted NextCloud instance on your own hardware or VPS, giving complete control over your productivity ecosystem.
Key Features: Complete control, Custom apps, Integration options, Advanced configuration
Best For: Advanced users, Privacy enthusiasts, Custom integrations
Logseq
Open-source platform for knowledge management with local storage, advanced outlining, and knowledge graph visualization.
Key Features: Local-first approach, Bidirectional linking, Outliner interface
Best For: Advanced knowledge management, Research organization, Visual thinking
Joplin + NextCloud + Obsidian
Integrated system combining Joplin’s mobile support, NextCloud’s synchronization, and Obsidian’s knowledge management capabilities.
Key Features: Integrated workflow, Cross-application compatibility, Advanced organization
Best For: Power users, Complex knowledge management needs
Essential Level
Signal
Secure messaging app with end-to-end encryption, offering private messaging, calling, and group chats with enhanced privacy features.
Key Features: End-to-end encryption, Disappearing messages, Minimal metadata
Best For: Private messaging, Secure calls, Group coordination
Proton Mail
Encrypted email service based in Switzerland with end-to-end encryption and zero-access encryption for your mailbox.
Key Features: End-to-end encryption, Swiss privacy laws, Custom domains, Mobile apps
Best For: Secure email, Privacy-conscious users, Custom domain setup
Jitsi Meet
Free, open-source video conferencing solution that you can use directly in your browser without creating an account or installing software.
Key Features: No account needed, End-to-end encryption option, Screen sharing
Best For: Quick meetings, Privacy-focused video calls, Group conferences
Business Level
Element (Matrix)
Secure messenger built on the decentralized Matrix protocol, offering team chat, video calls, and integrations for businesses.
Key Features: End-to-end encryption, Federation, Bridging to other platforms
Best For: Team communication, Organizational chat, Alternative to Slack/Teams
OVHcloud Email
Professional email hosting based in France with business features like shared calendars, contacts, and custom domain support.
Key Features: European hosting, Custom domains, Collaborative features
Best For: Business email, Team coordination, European sovereignty
NextCloud Talk
Integrated video conferencing solution within NextCloud, offering private communication directly from your file sharing platform.
Key Features: Integration with NextCloud, File sharing during calls, Chat persistence
Best For: Teams already using NextCloud, Internal meetings
Individual Level
Thunderbird
Free, open-source email client with calendar and chat features. Supports multiple email accounts and offers powerful customization.
Key Features: Open-source, Multiple account management, Calendar integration
Best For: Desktop email management, Calendar/contacts integration
Mailbox.org
German email provider with strong privacy focus, offering email, calendar, and cloud storage with integrated encryption.
Key Features: German privacy laws, Office features, PGP encryption support
Best For: Integrated email/calendar/contacts, European hosting
Session
Decentralized, end-to-end encrypted messenger that minimizes sensitive metadata and doesn’t require a phone number or email to register.
Key Features: No phone number required, Minimized metadata, Onion routing
Best For: Maximum privacy messaging, Anonymous communication
Enhanced Level
Mailcow
Self-hosted email server solution with Docker that provides full control over your email infrastructure with modern administration interface.
Key Features: Complete control, Docker-based, Web administration, Anti-spam
Best For: Self-hosted email, Technical users, Complete email sovereignty
Self-hosted Matrix
Run your own Matrix server for complete control over your messaging infrastructure while maintaining federation with the wider Matrix network.
Key Features: Full control of data, Federation options, Customizable policies
Best For: Advanced users, Organizations needing complete messaging control
Delta Chat
Chat application that works over email, providing a messenger-like interface while using the existing email infrastructure for maximum compatibility.
Key Features: Works over email, No new account needed, Decentralized architecture
Best For: Unified messaging, Communication with non-technical users
Essential Level
Linux Mint
User-friendly Linux distribution with a familiar interface, perfect for those transitioning from Windows. Comes with essential software pre-installed.
Key Features: Windows-like interface, Software Manager, Long-term support
Best For: Windows users transitioning to Linux, General desktop use
Minisforum HX99G
Compact mini PC with AMD Ryzen 9 processor, ideal for running Linux with excellent performance in a small form factor.
Key Features: AMD Ryzen 9, Small form factor, High performance, Energy efficient
Best For: Everyday computing, Home desktop replacement
Lenovo AMD Laptops
Laptops with AMD processors offering good Linux compatibility, performance, and battery life without Intel Management Engine concerns.
Key Features: AMD processors, Good Linux compatibility, Widely available
Best For: Mobile computing, Business use, Students
Business Level
OVHcloud VPS
European virtual private servers for hosting websites, email services, and other business applications with European data sovereignty.
Key Features: European hosting, Scalable resources, SSD storage
Best For: Business hosting, Email servers, Web applications
Synology NAS
Network Attached Storage solutions for businesses to store, back up, and share data on-premises with sophisticated management tools.
Key Features: On-premises storage, RAID support, App ecosystem
Best For: Business file storage, Team collaboration, Data backup
Infomaniak
Swiss hosting provider offering managed services including web hosting, email, and cloud solutions with strong privacy commitments.
Key Features: Swiss privacy, Renewable energy powered, Managed services
Best For: Business hosting, Managed infrastructure, Swiss data residency
Individual Level
Framework Laptop
Modular, repairable laptop designed for longevity with user-replaceable components and excellent Linux compatibility.
Key Features: Repairable design, Modular expansion, AMD/Intel options
Best For: Long-term investment, Right-to-repair advocates, Linux users
Debian
Highly stable and secure Linux distribution with strong commitment to free software principles and excellent package management.
Key Features: Rock-solid stability, Huge software repository, Long-term support
Best For: Stability-focused users, Servers, Older hardware
Raspberry Pi
Low-cost, low-power single-board computer perfect for self-hosting applications, learning Linux, and creating custom infrastructure solutions.
Key Features: Low cost, Low power consumption, Versatile applications
Best For: Self-hosting experiments, Learning projects, Simple servers
Enhanced Level
Minisforum UM890 Pro
High-performance mini PC with AMD Ryzen 9, 64GB RAM capacity, and expandable storage ideal for running virtual machines and local AI models.
Key Features: Powerful AMD CPU, Expandable memory, Multi-display support
Best For: Virtualization, AI workloads, Content creation
Proxmox VE
Open-source virtualization platform that combines KVM hypervisor and LXC containers with web-based management interface.
Key Features: VM and container support, Web interface, Live migration
Best For: Home lab, Self-hosted services, Advanced infrastructure
QubesOS
Security-focused operating system that uses virtualization to provide strong isolation between different activities and trust domains.
Key Features: Security by compartmentalization, VM isolation, Template-based approach
Best For: Security-focused users, Threat isolation, Advanced privacy
Essential Level
Bitwarden
Open-source password manager with end-to-end encryption that works across all devices and platforms. Free for personal use with premium features available.
Key Features: End-to-end encryption, Cross-platform, Browser extensions
Best For: Password management, Secure notes, Credit card storage
uBlock Origin
Efficient and effective content blocker for browsers that blocks ads, trackers, and malware domains to enhance privacy and security.
Key Features: Ad blocking, Tracker blocking, Low resource usage
Best For: Everyday browsing, Privacy enhancement, Malware protection
SimpleLogin
Email alias service that allows you to create unlimited email aliases to protect your real email address and reduce spam.
Key Features: Unlimited aliases, Reply functionality, Custom domains
Best For: Email privacy, Spam reduction, Account segregation
Business Level
Bitwarden Organizations
Team and business version of Bitwarden with password sharing, role-based access control, and audit capabilities.
Key Features: Secure sharing, User management, Directory integration
Best For: Team password management, Secure credential sharing
Borg Backup
Deduplicating backup program that supports compression and authenticated encryption for efficient and secure backups.
Key Features: Deduplication, Encryption, Compression, Remote backups
Best For: Business data backups, Server backups, Efficient storage
Tailscale
Zero-configuration VPN for building secure networks between devices and teams, making private services accessible securely from anywhere.
Key Features: Zero config, NAT traversal, End-to-end encryption
Best For: Team access to services, Remote work security
Individual Level
Mullvad VPN
Privacy-focused VPN service that accepts cash, doesn’t require personal information, and maintains a strict no-logging policy.
Key Features: No account required, Anonymous payment, WireGuard support
Best For: Maximum privacy VPN, Anonymous browsing
LUKS Disk Encryption
Linux disk encryption standard that provides strong security for protecting data on your device, even if it’s lost or stolen.
Key Features: Full disk encryption, Multiple key slots, Linux integration
Best For: Device security, Data protection, Anti-theft measures
KeePassXC
Offline, open-source password manager with strong encryption and advanced features like TOTP generation and hardware key support.
Key Features: Offline storage, Cross-platform, TOTP integration
Best For: Offline password storage, Air-gapped security
Enhanced Level
pfSense
Open-source network firewall distribution based on FreeBSD, offering advanced routing, firewall, and VPN capabilities for network security.
Key Features: Advanced firewall, VPN server, Traffic shaping
Best For: Network security, Custom routing, Home/office protection
Pi-hole
Network-level advertisement and tracking blocker that acts as a DNS sinkhole to block unwanted content before it reaches any of your devices.
Key Features: Network-wide blocking, DNS cache, Detailed statistics
Best For: Whole network ad blocking, IoT device protection
YubiKey
Hardware authentication device that provides strong two-factor authentication through various protocols, including FIDO2, U2F, and PIV.
Key Features: Physical security key, Multiple protocols, Phishing resistance
Best For: Two-factor authentication, Advanced account security
Essential Level
Claude AI
Advanced AI assistant with strong privacy commitments, useful for writing, research, creative tasks, and technical problem-solving.
Key Features: Strong privacy policies, Helpful and harmless design, File uploads
Best For: Writing assistance, Research, Technical questions
Perplexity
AI-powered search engine that provides sourced answers to questions while maintaining stronger privacy practices than traditional search engines.
Key Features: Citation-based answers, Conversational interface, Pro version
Best For: Research queries, Learning topics, Quick information
Brave Leo
Privacy-focused AI assistant built into the Brave browser, designed to provide help without compromising your data.
Key Features: Integrated with Brave, Privacy focus, On-device processing options
Best For: Quick questions, Brave browser users, Privacy-conscious AI use
Business Level
Claude for Teams
Team-oriented version of Claude AI with enhanced document processing, larger context windows, and enterprise security features.
Key Features: Document analysis, Team workspace, API access
Best For: Business document processing, Team collaboration
Aleph Alpha
European AI company offering large language models with EU data compliance and multilingual capabilities for business applications.
Key Features: European AI, Data sovereignty, Multilingual support
Best For: European businesses, Regulated industries
Mistral Large
European AI model with competitive capabilities, strong privacy commitments, and GDPR compliance for business use cases.
Key Features: French-based company, API access, Strong capabilities
Best For: European business applications, Custom AI implementations
Individual Level
Jan
Desktop AI assistant from Taiwan that runs completely locally on your computer, ensuring your data never leaves your device.
Key Features: Fully local, No data transmission, Open-source
Best For: Privacy-conscious AI users, Offline assistance
LocalAI
Self-hosted, offline AI server that can run various local models including LLMs, stable diffusion, and audio recognition models.
Key Features: Self-hosted, API compatible, Multiple model support
Best For: Local API deployment, Multiple AI capabilities
LM Studio
Desktop application that allows you to discover, download, and run local LLMs on your computer without sending data to external services.
Key Features: Model discovery, Local execution, Easy interface
Best For: Exploring different AI models, Local chat interface
Enhanced Level
Ollama
Framework for running, managing and creating large language models locally on your device with simple commands and API access.
Key Features: Easy model installation, API server, Resource optimization
Best For: Local AI deployment, Custom applications, Developers
Stable Diffusion XL
Open-source image generation model that can run locally on your hardware, allowing creative image generation without sending data externally.
Key Features: Local image generation, High quality output, Customizable
Best For: Creative projects, Visual content creation, Privacy-conscious artists
DeepSeek R2+
Advanced compact language model optimized for local execution on consumer hardware with impressive capabilities despite its smaller size.
Key Features: Efficient model size, Strong reasoning, Local execution
Best For: Advanced users, Local AI development, Resource-efficient LLM
Downloadable Templates and Checklists
These resources are designed to help you plan and track your digital sovereignty journey. Download and use these templates to organize your migration process, document your systems, and share knowledge with your team or family.
Essential Migration Checklist
Comprehensive checklist for casual users implementing the Essential migration path.
Download PDFSmall Business Migration Planner
Planning document with timeline, responsibility assignments, and progress tracking for business implementations.
Download PDFIndividual Setup Worksheet
Detailed worksheet for technically inclined individuals implementing more advanced sovereignty solutions.
Download PDFEnhanced Migration Roadmap
Advanced planning document for implementing AI-augmented sovereignty with infrastructure documentation.
Download PDFSovereignty Assessment Tool
Spreadsheet for evaluating your current digital sovereignty status and identifying improvement opportunities.
Coming SoonEmail Migration Tracker
Template for managing the transition from corporate email providers to sovereign alternatives.
Coming SoonCommunity and Support Resources
Digital sovereignty is a collaborative journey. These community resources provide support, knowledge sharing, and opportunities to connect with others on similar paths.
We welcome community input on all aspects of digital sovereignty. If you have suggestions for tools, resources, or improvements to our guides, please get in touch using the form below.
Contribute to the Digital Sovereignty Project
Share your knowledge, tools, or resources to help others on their sovereignty journey.
Forums & Discussion Groups
- PrivacyTools Forum – Active community discussing privacy tools and techniques
- r/privacy – Reddit community focused on privacy news and discussions
- r/degoogle – Resources and support for reducing Google dependency
- Lemmy Self-Hosted Community – Discussions on self-hosting applications
Educational Resources
- Privacy Guides – Comprehensive privacy tool recommendations and guides
- Electronic Frontier Foundation – Digital rights organization with educational resources
- Switching Software – Ethical, easy-to-use and privacy-conscious alternatives
- Techlore – Privacy education with guides and videos
Local User Groups
- New Zealand Linux Users Group – Support for Linux users in New Zealand
- NZ Open Source Society – Promoting open source software in New Zealand
- Local Sovereignty Meetups – In-person meetings (coming soon)
- Digital Sovereignty NZ – National networking group (in development)
Digital Sovereignty Glossary
Explore key concepts and terminology related to digital sovereignty, privacy, and technology independence. Click on categories to expand and discover terms at different complexity levels.
Basic Concepts
Digital Sovereignty
BeginnerThe ability to have autonomy and control over your digital presence, data, and technology choices, reducing dependency on corporate tech ecosystems and surveillance-based business models.
Open Source
BeginnerSoftware whose source code is publicly available, allowing anyone to view, modify, and distribute it. This transparency enables community verification of security and privacy claims.
End-to-End Encryption (E2EE)
BeginnerA communication system where only the communicating users can read the messages. Messages are encrypted on the sender’s device and can only be decrypted on the recipient’s device.
Data Sovereignty
IntermediateThe concept that data is subject to the laws and governance structures of the nation where it is stored. Increasingly important with cloud computing and international data transfers.
Vendor Lock-in
AdvancedA situation where a customer becomes dependent on a vendor’s products or services and cannot easily switch to a competitor without substantial costs or technical barriers.
AI & Computing Concepts
Large Language Model (LLM)
BeginnerA type of AI model trained on vast amounts of text data to understand and generate human-like text. Examples include GPT-4, Claude, and Llama.
Federated Learning
IntermediateA machine learning approach where models are trained across multiple devices or servers holding local data samples, without exchanging the data itself—only model updates.
Quantization
AdvancedA technique to reduce the precision of the numbers used in AI models, decreasing memory and computational requirements with some trade-off in accuracy.
Homomorphic Encryption
AdvancedA form of encryption that allows computation on encrypted data without decryption. The results, when decrypted, match the results of operations performed on unencrypted data.
Under Development
The Resources section is actively expanding. We’re currently working on:
- More comprehensive tool evaluations with detailed comparison charts
- Additional downloadable templates and checklists for specific migration scenarios
- Expanded glossary with technical diagram visualizations
- Interactive decision trees to help you select the right tools for your needs
- Case studies of successful digital sovereignty implementations
We welcome your contributions and feedback to make this resource more valuable for everyone. Please use the contribution form above to share your suggestions.