The Best ngrok Alternative for Linux: Meet Tunnelmole (Open Source & Free)

If you’re a developer on Linux searching for an ngrok alternative for Linux, you’re not alone. Whether you’re testing webhooks, sharing a local site, or collaborating remotely, you need a reliable way to expose your local server to the internet. While ngrok is popular, it’s not the only option—especially if you want something open source, free, and easy to use on Linux.

In this article, you’ll learn:

• Why developers look for ngrok alternatives on Linux
• What makes Tunnelmole a standout choice
• How to install and use Tunnelmole on Linux
• Key differences between Tunnelmole and ngrok
• Real-world use cases and tips for Linux users

Why Look for an ngrok Alternative on Linux?

ngrok is a well-known tunneling tool, but it comes with some limitations:

• Free plan restrictions: Limited concurrent tunnels, session timeouts, and random subdomains.
• Closed source: You can’t audit or self-host the service.
• Pricing: Advanced features require a paid subscription.
• Installer friction: Some users prefer a simple, scriptable install or want to avoid proprietary binaries.

If you want a tool that’s open source, free to use, and works seamlessly on Linux, it’s time to check out Tunnelmole.

Introducing Tunnelmole: The Open Source ngrok Alternative for Linux

Tunnelmole is a simple, open source tool that gives your locally running HTTP(s) servers a public URL—just like ngrok, but with a focus on transparency, developer freedom, and ease of use.

Key features:

• Open source: Both client and server are open source (MIT/AGPLv3).
• Free HTTPS URLs: Get a secure public URL for your local server in seconds.
• No account required: Start tunneling instantly—no sign-up or login needed.
• Works on Linux, macOS, and Windows: Native binaries and npm install options.
• Custom subdomains: Available with a subscription or self-hosted.
• Self-hosting: Run your own Tunnelmole server for full control.

How to Install Tunnelmole on Linux

Tunnelmole is designed for a frictionless install on Linux. You have two main options:

1. Install via Shell Script (Recommended for Linux)

Open your terminal and run:

curl -O https://install.tunnelmole.com/xD345/install && sudo bash install

The script auto-detects your OS and installs the right binary for your Linux distribution.

2. Install via npm (Requires Node.js 16.10+)

If you already use Node.js, you can install Tunnelmole globally:

sudo npm install -g tunnelmole

Tip: Get Node.js from nodejs.org or your distro’s package manager.

How to Use Tunnelmole on Linux

Let’s say you have a local web app running on port 8080. To get a public URL:

tmole 8080

You’ll see output like:

https://cqcu2t-ip-49-185-26-79.tunnelmole.net ⟶ http://localhost:8080
http://cqcu2t-ip-49-185-26-79.tunnelmole.net ⟶ http://localhost:8080

Now, anyone can access your local app via the provided HTTPS URL.

Common use cases:

• Test webhooks from Stripe, GitHub, or IFTTT on your Linux machine
• Share your local React, Node.js, or static site with teammates
• Preview mobile versions of your site on real devices
• Demo your work to clients without deploying

Tunnelmole vs ngrok: Feature Comparison

Here’s a quick side-by-side comparison for Linux users:

Real-World Example: Testing Webhooks on Linux with Tunnelmole

Let’s walk through a typical developer workflow:

1. Start your local server (e.g., Express app on port 3000):

   node app.js

2. Expose your server with Tunnelmole:

   tmole 3000

3. Copy the HTTPS URL from the output.

4. Paste the URL into your webhook provider (e.g., Stripe, GitHub, IFTTT).

5. Trigger the webhook—your local Linux app receives the request instantly.

No firewall changes, no router config, no ngrok account required.

Advanced: Integrate Tunnelmole with npm Scripts

You can automate Tunnelmole in your project’s package.json:

{
  "scripts": {
    "start": "node app.js",
    "start-public": "npm run start && tmole 3000"
  }
}

Now, run:

npm run start-public

This starts your app and exposes it with a public URL in one step.

FAQ: Tunnelmole for Linux

Is Tunnelmole really open source?
Yes! Both the client and server are open source. See the code on GitHub.

Can I use Tunnelmole for free?
Yes, the default hosted service is free for public URLs. Custom subdomains require a subscription or self-hosting.

Can I self-host Tunnelmole?
Absolutely. Instructions here.

Summary

If you’re looking for the best ngrok alternative for Linux, Tunnelmole is a top choice: open source, free, easy to install, and packed with features for developers. Whether you’re testing webhooks, sharing your work, or collaborating remotely, Tunnelmole makes exposing your localhost on Linux effortless.

Next Steps

• Install Tunnelmole on your Linux machine
• Read the full documentation
• Star Tunnelmole on GitHub

Happy tunneling!