SixterSixter vs ngrok
Both expose localhost to the internet through a secure tunnel. They differ in scope: ngrok is a mature, hosted tunneling service; Sixter combines tunneling with one‑click deployment and can be self‑hosted.
At a glance
| Capability | Sixter | ngrok |
|---|---|---|
| Expose localhost (HTTP/WebSocket) | Yes | Yes |
| Automatic HTTPS | Yes | Yes |
| Custom domains | Yes | Paid plans |
| Project deployment (build & run) | Yes | No |
| Host from a server with no public IP | Yes (Tunnel Mode) | Yes |
| Built‑in WAF / bot protection | Yes | Traffic policy (paid) |
| Team roles & review‑then‑deploy | Yes | Team plans |
| Self‑hostable | Yes | No (hosted service) |
| Global edge network / regions | Single gateway you run | Managed global edge |
When ngrok is the better fit
If you want a zero‑ops, managed service with a global edge network, a large catalog of tunneling features, and don't need deployment, ngrok is a strong, battle‑tested choice.
When Sixter is the better fit
Choose Sixter if you want tunneling and deployment in one tool, you want to self‑host the gateway on your own VPS, you need free custom domains with automatic HTTPS, or you want a team workflow where developers push and a lead promotes to production.
Try Sixter
sixter login
sixter tunnel -port 3000
# → https://<name>.sixter.in forwards to http://127.0.0.1:3000See the documentation or the expose‑localhost tutorial.
FAQ
Is Sixter a free ngrok alternative?
Sixter offers tunneling and deployment and can be self‑hosted on your own server, which avoids per‑seat SaaS costs. Feature availability depends on your setup.
Can I use my own domain?
Yes. Point a CNAME (or A record for apex) at Sixter and it issues and renews TLS certificates automatically.
Does Sixter work without a public IP?
Yes — Tunnel Mode forwards traffic down an outbound tunnel from your server, so no public IP or port‑forwarding is needed.