Stirling PDF is an open-source PDF editing platform that runs as a desktop app, in the browser, or on self-hosted servers with a private API.
The tool addresses the need to handle PDF operations without relying on external services. It provides over fifty tools for editing, merging, splitting, signing, redacting, converting, and performing OCR on PDFs. Users can build no-code automation pipelines directly in the UI or integrate PDF processing into existing systems through REST APIs. The platform supports deployment across multiple environments, from personal desktop use to enterprise server installations.
Stirling PDF suits organizations and individuals who require document processing capabilities while maintaining control over their data. It works well for teams needing both a user-friendly interface for manual PDF work and programmatic access for automation. The tool is particularly valuable for those handling sensitive documents that should not be sent to third-party services. The platform includes enterprise features such as single sign-on and auditing, making it suitable for larger deployments. The interface is available in over forty languages, supporting global teams.
The project maintains active community engagement through Discord and GitHub issues. Development follows a structured approach using Task as a unified command runner for builds, development, and testing. The project welcomes contributions and provides dedicated guides for adding translations and extending functionality. The codebase is written in Java and distributed through Docker, enabling straightforward deployment across different infrastructure setups.
