Waline is a comment system that provides both client and server components for embedding discussions on websites.
The tool addresses the need for a self-hosted, privacy-conscious alternative to third-party comment platforms. It separates concerns into a lightweight client library and a backend service that can be deployed to multiple hosting providers. The system supports full markdown syntax in comments and includes moderation features such as keyword restrictions, IP-based frequency limiting, IP disallow lists, and duplicate content detection. Notifications can be sent via email, WeChat, QQ, or Telegram when new comments arrive. The backend can store data in PostgreSQL, MySQL, SQLite, TiDB, MongoDB, or GitHub, giving users flexibility in choosing their storage layer.
Waline suits developers building blogs or static sites who want comment functionality without relying on external services. It is particularly valuable for those prioritizing data ownership and privacy, as the entire system can be self-hosted. The tool emphasizes being lightweight and fast, with the client library available through CDN distribution. Deployment is supported across numerous platforms including Vercel, Railway, Zeabur, Netlify, Render, Docker, and Alibaba Cloud, making it accessible whether you prefer serverless functions or traditional hosting. The README positions this as an alternative to Disqus by offering more control and multiple deployment options.
The project maintains active communication channels through discussions, Telegram, and QQ groups. Development includes completed features for social account login, comment management with deletion capabilities, article counters, internationalization support, and comment liking and pinning. The tool continues to expand database support and deployment options, with some cloud providers still on the roadmap.
