hostcfrp alternative: hostc vs frp
frp is a powerful reverse proxy you run yourself, and it needs a server with a public IP. hostc is for when you just want a link in a few seconds, with no server to pay for or configure.
| hostc | frp | |
|---|---|---|
| Install | Nothing beyond Node.js | frpc locally, frps on your server |
| Account | None | None, but you need a public server |
| URL | New on every start, kept across reconnects | Your own server or domain |
| What visitors see | Your app, with no page in front | Your app |
| Traffic | HTTP, WebSocket, Server-Sent Events | TCP, UDP, HTTP and HTTPS |
| Limits | 256 requests at once, 1024 waiting, no monthly quota | Those of your server |
From each product's documentation on 2026-11-06. Products change, so check theirs before you decide.
When hostc is the better choice
- You want a public link to a dev server in seconds, on any machine with Node.js.
- You share with people or services that shouldn't need an account or a click-through.
- You use hot reload, WebSockets or Server-Sent Events.
When frp is the better choice
- You need TCP or UDP, for example SSH or game servers.
- You want a long-running tunnel on your own domain.
- Traffic must stay on servers you control.
Try hostc
npx hostc@latest 3000