Charm

Charm is an open-source, cross-platform set of tools and libraries designed to simplify adding backend capabilities—such as user accounts, data storage, and encryption—to terminal-based applications. It is suitable for professionals and developers who want to quickly build modern CLI applications with features like time tracking, billable hours management, and more.

Features

• Charm Client: A command-line utility for accessing Charm services directly, useful for scripting, standalone use, or testing.
• Self-Hosting: Easily run your own Charm Cloud instance with a single executable. No storage limits by default when self-hosted.
• Cross-Platform Support: Available for all major platforms and architectures, including FreeBSD and ARM.
• Charm KV (Key-Value Store):
  • Built on BadgerDB.
  • Cloud backup, multi-machine syncing, end-to-end encryption.
  • Embeddable in applications; can enhance existing BadgerDB implementations.
• Charm FS (Filesystem):
  • Provides a virtual personal filesystem for each user on the server.
  • Implements Go's fs.FS interface with additional write/delete methods.
  • 1GB storage cap per account on the public Charm Cloud; unlimited when self-hosted.
• Charm Crypt:
  • Client-side encryption for all data sent to the server.
  • Simple methods for encrypting/decrypting user data.
  • Automated key management and account linking.
• Charm Accounts:
  • Authentication via SSH keys—automatic creation and linking.
  • Frictionless multi-machine access and key revocation.
• Backups:
  • Backup and recovery of account keys using included CLI commands.
• TLS Support: Server can be configured to use TLS for secure connections.
• Docker & Systemd: Deployment instructions and support for both.

Pricing

• Open Source: Charm is MIT licensed and free to use.
• Public Charm Cloud: 1GB storage per account limit.
• Self-Hosted: No storage limits by default; admins can set their own limits.

Tags

cross-platform billable-hours professionals open-source