Get started

Before you begin

You need a server or VM that can run Docker, or a supported Debian/Ubuntu system. For production use, also prepare a hostname such as todo.example.com and an HTTPS reverse proxy.

Your deployment must provide:

• one reachable TCP port (default: 8753)
• persistent storage for the database and runtime files
• HTTPS for passkeys, secure browser features and native integrations

Choose an installation

Docker

Choose Docker when you already use Compose, Portainer, Kubernetes-style tooling or another container platform. Updates are performed by pulling and recreating the container.

Debian or Ubuntu package

Choose the full server package for a traditional systemd installation. It includes service units, a daily backup timer, command-line recovery tools and supported in-app server updates.

Complete the initial setup

1. Start nia-todo and open http://YOUR-SERVER:8753/setup.
2. Create the initial administrator account.
3. Create the first normal user when prompted.
4. Sign in to the app at http://YOUR-SERVER:8753/.
5. Open /admin to configure the instance.

The setup route is only used to bootstrap an empty database. Once setup is complete, it cannot be used to create another administrator.

Production checklist

Before inviting users:

1. Put the instance behind HTTPS and a reverse proxy.
2. Set the exact Public base URL in /admin, for example https://todo.example.com.
3. Verify the allowed origins and trusted proxy list.
4. Configure and test SMTP if you need invitations, password resets or email verification.
5. Create a manual backup and verify where it is stored.
6. Install the preferred native app or PWA from your own instance.

Keep the data volume persistent. Replacing a container without its volume creates a new, empty instance.