If you need an accounting system that works on shared hosting (cPanel), is 100% free, and allows full backups in case your hosting ends or fails, you have a few excellent open-source choices in 2025.

Below we compare Dolibarr, FrontAccounting, Invoice Ninja, and FOSSBilling.

1. Dolibarr ERP/CRM

  • Cost: 100% free, GPL open source, all features included.
  • Install: Works on any cPanel (PHP + MySQL). One-click install available via Softaculous.
  • Features: Full double-entry accounting, invoicing, CRM, inventory, project management, multi-currency, VAT/GST.
  • Backup: Built-in backup tool, cPanel full backup, or sync to Google Drive with cron jobs.
  • Best for: Businesses needing all-in-one ERP + accounting.

2. FrontAccounting

  • Cost: Free & open source.
  • Install: Lightweight PHP app, very fast on shared hosting.
  • Features: Core accounting, sales, purchases, inventory, bank accounts, multi-currency, tax support.
  • Backup: Database export + cPanel backup.
  • Best for: Businesses that only need pure accounting with minimal extras.

3. Invoice Ninja (Self-Hosted)

  • Cost: Free & open source (MIT license).
  • Install: PHP + MySQL; works on cPanel shared hosting.
  • Features: Invoicing, recurring billing, client portal, expenses, light accounting reports.
  • Backup: JSON export, cPanel backup.
  • Best for: Freelancers/service providers focused on billing rather than full accounting.

4. FOSSBilling

  • Cost: Free & open source.
  • Install: PHP + MySQL, designed for shared hosting.
  • Features: Client management, invoicing, subscription billing, payment gateways, support ticket system.
  • Backup: Database export + cPanel backup.
  • Best for: Web hosting companies and digital service providers.

Comparison Table

Feature / AppDolibarrFrontAccountingInvoice NinjaFOSSBilling
Free✅✅✅✅
Shared Hosting✅✅✅✅
Full Accounting✅✅❌❌
Invoicing✅✅✅✅
CRM✅❌❌✅ (basic)
ERP Modules✅❌❌❌
Backup Ease✅✅✅✅
UI ModernityMediumLowHighMedium

Final Recommendation

For most users, Dolibarr is the best choice:

  • Works perfectly on shared hosting.
  • Has complete ERP + accounting functionality.
  • No paid add-ons required.
  • Easy full backup/migration via cPanel.

If you need something simpler for just invoicing, Invoice Ninja is a great alternative.

EngineerHow.com Recommendation:
If you’re setting this up on shared hosting, install Dolibarr via Softaculous, configure your accounting, and set a daily backup to Google Drive using cPanel’s cron jobs. That way, even if your hosting disappears, you can be back online in under an hour.

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