Rocket.Chat runs in three deployment models. Your choice depends on how much control you need over data and infrastructure, and how isolated your environment must be.
Compare the models
| Consideration | Cloud-hosted | Self-managed | Air-gapped |
|---|---|---|---|
| Who runs the infrastructure | Rocket.Chat | You | You, fully isolated from the public internet |
| Data location | Rocket.Chat Cloud | Your servers or private cloud | Your isolated network |
| Free entry point | Cloud workspace via the Cloud Portal | Starter workspace (up to 50 users) | None. Air-gapped deployment requires a paid plan. |
| Typical fit | Teams that want the fastest start with no server operations | Organizations with sovereignty, compliance, or infrastructure requirements | Defense, intelligence, and classified environments (SCIF-ready, up to IL6) |
Cloud-hosted
Rocket.Chat operates the workspace for you. Create it from the Rocket.Chat Cloud Portal. When you create your first cloud-hosted workspace, a Cloud account is created for you automatically.
Self-managed
You deploy and operate Rocket.Chat on your own infrastructure using Docker Compose, Podman, or Kubernetes. A free Starter workspace is provisioned automatically when you deploy. Review the System Requirements before you start, and see Reference Architectures by Workspace Size to size the deployment.
Air-gapped
The workspace runs with no connection to the public internet. Cloud-dependent services need alternative configurations: mobile push notifications require controlled outbound traffic or a custom push mechanism, and Marketplace apps are installed through Rocket.Chat Support on paid plans. See Air-Gapped Workspace Configuration.
Note: Air-gapped deployment is not available on Starter. It is a paid-plan capability.
Match the model to a plan
Commercial: on-premises, private cloud, or fully isolated deployments for regulated industries.
Government: on-premises and sovereign cloud deployments with Matrix federation for cross-agency collaboration.
Defense: air-gapped, SCIF-ready deployments with DoD ATO up to IL6 (NIPR, SIPR, JWICS).
See Our Plans for the full comparison, or request a guided evaluation for a scoped Proof of Concept in your target environment.