7 Best Open Source Video Conferencing Software for Enterprise 

In the online space now, there are lots of virtual meeting options, each promising to make your enterprise communication more efficient. 

However, for many businesses, especially those looking to balance cost-effectiveness and functionality, open-source video conferencing software is the way to go. 

Let’s say, for example, that your enterprise needs a reliable platform that fosters seamless collaboration, supports a large number of participants, and ensures data security. The good news is that you don’t need to break the bank for it. 

Open-source video conferencing software offers an array of impressive options, and in this guide, we’ll explore the top seven choices, each tailored to meet your enterprise’s unique needs.

Comparison Table

Let’s begin with a side-by-side comparison of the standout features of these 10 open-source video conferencing tools:

Name	Best For	Features	Security Features	Scalability	User Experience
Jitsi Meet	Secure conferencing	End-to-end encryption, screen sharing	Advanced security options	Scalable architecture	Intuitive UI, customization
BigBlueButton	Online learning, webinars	Virtual classrooms, whiteboarding	WebRTC encryption	Scalable for classrooms	Interactive features
OpenMeetings	Web conferencing	Video playback, collaborative tools	Encrypted communication	Scalable with plugins	Rich media options
Nextcloud Talk	Team collaboration	Chat integration, file sharing	Encryption at rest and transit	Scalable for organizations	Unified communication hub
Rocket.Chat	Chat and video conferencing	Chat rooms, integration	Secure communication	Scalable for large teams	Unified collaboration platform
Wire	Secure messaging	Video calls, messaging, file sharing	End-to-end encryption	Scalable with enterprise plan	Modern interface, high security
Zulip	Focused team chat	Streamlined discussions, message threads	Data encryption at rest	Scalable for teams	Threaded conversation model

Jitsi Meet

Jitsi Meet stands as a remarkable open-source video conferencing platform that has redefined the landscape of virtual collaboration. 

With an emphasis on security, ease of use, and powerful features, Jitsi Meet empowers teams to connect seamlessly and conduct productive meetings in a secure online environment.

Key Features

• Immersive Video Conferencing: Jitsi Meet offers a user-friendly interface that facilitates smooth video conferencing, making it effortless for participants to join discussions and share their insights.
• End-to-End Encryption: A standout feature of Jitsi Meet is its commitment to security. The platform employs end-to-end encryption to ensure that conversations remain private and confidential, instilling trust among users.
• Screen Sharing and Collaboration: Sharing content during meetings is made easy with the screen sharing feature, enabling real-time collaboration on documents, presentations, and ideas.
• Customizable Meeting Rooms: Jitsi Meet allows users to create personalized meeting rooms with custom URLs, fostering a sense of identity and professionalism.
• Mobile-Friendly: The mobile app version of Jitsi Meet ensures that you can participate in video conferences on the go, enhancing flexibility and accessibility.

Pros

• Jitsi Meet’s commitment to end-to-end encryption and secure communication reassures users that their sensitive conversations are protected.
• The platform’s intuitive interface and user-friendly design make it accessible for both tech-savvy individuals and those new to video conferencing.
• Jitsi Meet being open source ensures transparency, allowing users to inspect the code and contribute to its improvement.
• Jitsi Meet’s architecture supports scalability, making it suitable for small teams, large enterprises, and everything in between.
• One of the standout benefits is that participants can join meetings without requiring an account, streamlining the process and minimizing barriers.

Cons

• While Jitsi Meet covers the essentials, some advanced features offered by commercial solutions may be absent, particularly for very specific use cases.
• Although customizable meeting rooms are a great feature, options for advanced branding might be limited for enterprises with specific branding requirements.

Pricing

One of the most appealing aspects of Jitsi Meet is its open-source nature, which means that the core functionality is available for free. 

Who Should Use It?

Jitsi Meet is an ideal choice for enterprises, businesses, and organizations that prioritize security, seamless collaboration, and accessibility. 

Whether you’re conducting team meetings, client presentations, or remote training sessions, Jitsi Meet provides a reliable and secure platform to connect and communicate effectively. 

BigBlueButton

BigBlueButton is a remarkable open-source video conferencing platform that has carved a niche for itself in the realm of online education and collaborative communication. 

This robust software facilitates seamless interaction and engagement within virtual classrooms and remote team environments, making it an invaluable asset for educators and businesses alike.

Key Features

• Virtual Classrooms: BigBlueButton stands out as an exceptional tool for online learning. Its virtual classroom environment offers features like whiteboarding, presentation sharing, and live chat, enabling educators to recreate the interactive dynamics of a physical classroom in the digital space.
• Webinars and Presentations: The platform supports webinars and presentations, allowing users to share valuable content with participants in real-time. Features like screen sharing and polling enhance engagement and enable effective knowledge dissemination.
• Interactive Tools: BigBlueButton thrives on interactivity. Whiteboarding, breakout rooms, and real-time quizzes foster active participation and collaborative learning, fostering an environment conducive to engaging educational experiences.
• WebRTC Encryption: Security is a top priority, and BigBlueButton employs WebRTC encryption to safeguard communications during video conferences and webinars, ensuring that sensitive information remains private.
• Scalability for Classrooms: Designed with scalability in mind, BigBlueButton is capable of handling large virtual classrooms, making it an excellent choice for educational institutions of various sizes.

Pros

• BigBlueButton’s focus on education sets it apart. Its array of tools tailor-made for online learning makes it an indispensable asset for teachers and educators seeking to deliver high-quality content to their students.
• The platform’s interactive features, from whiteboarding to breakout rooms, foster engagement, collaboration, and a sense of community in the virtual classroom.
• Being open source, BigBlueButton encourages community contributions and improvements, ensuring that the platform evolves to meet the evolving needs of modern education.
• Robust security measures, including WebRTC encryption, provide a secure environment for educational institutions and businesses to conduct sensitive discussions and lessons.

Cons

• As with any sophisticated software, BigBlueButton has a learning curve, particularly for educators new to online teaching platforms. However, the intuitive interface and available resources make this challenge surmountable.

Pricing

BigBlueButton is free. 

Who Should Use It?

Educators, trainers, and businesses seeking a powerful and secure video conferencing solution geared towards online learning and interactive collaboration will find BigBlueButton an invaluable tool. Its versatility and scalability make it suitable for both small online classes and large virtual conferences.

OpenMeetings

OpenMeetings is a versatile and powerful open-source web conferencing platform that provides a comprehensive suite of features for seamless communication and collaboration. 

It stands out for its user-friendly interface, diverse functionalities, and ability to adapt to various business needs, making it a valuable asset for enterprises and teams alike.

Key Features

• Video Conferencing: OpenMeetings offers high-quality video conferencing capabilities, enabling teams to hold virtual meetings, webinars, and presentations with ease.
• Collaborative Tools: The platform provides collaborative tools like screen sharing, whiteboarding, and document sharing, fostering interactive and engaging discussions among participants.
• Encrypted Communication: Security is a priority with OpenMeetings, ensuring that communication remains confidential through encrypted channels and giving users peace of mind.
• Customization: OpenMeetings allows for customization through plugins and extensions, enabling organizations to tailor the platform to their specific requirements.
• Rich Media Options: With support for multimedia content, including audio and video files, OpenMeetings facilitates dynamic and multimedia-rich presentations and discussions.

Pros

• OpenMeetings boasts an intuitive and user-friendly interface, making it accessible to both tech-savvy professionals and those less familiar with conferencing platforms.
• The platform is designed to scale effectively, accommodating both small teams and larger enterprises without compromising on performance.
• Being an open-source solution, OpenMeetings is cost-effective and offers the advantage of community-driven development, ensuring constant improvement and innovation.
• The range of features, from collaborative tools to encryption, positions OpenMeetings as a comprehensive solution for various communication needs.

Cons

• As with any advanced conferencing platform, there might be a learning curve for users new to online collaboration tools. However, the intuitive interface helps mitigate this challenge.
• While customization is a strength, it might require some technical knowledge to fully leverage the platform’s extensibility.

Pricing

OpenMeetings, being open-source is free. 

Who Should Use It?

OpenMeetings is a versatile solution suitable for a wide range of businesses and organizations. Small startups, medium-sized companies, and large enterprises can all benefit from its feature-rich environment.

Nextcloud Talk

Nextcloud Talk is an innovative and versatile communication platform that seamlessly integrates video calls, chat, and collaboration tools within the Nextcloud ecosystem. 

With a focus on secure and efficient communication, Nextcloud Talk offers a range of features that cater to the needs of modern businesses, enhancing team collaboration and remote work dynamics.

Key Features

• Unified Communication Hub: Nextcloud Talk provides a centralized platform where teams can conduct video calls, exchange messages, and collaborate on projects, eliminating the need to switch between different applications.
• End-to-End Encryption: Security is paramount in Nextcloud Talk. All communication is encrypted end-to-end, ensuring that sensitive conversations and data remain private and protected from unauthorized access.
• File Sharing and Collaboration: Beyond video calls, Nextcloud Talk allows users to share files, documents, and other resources, enabling seamless collaboration during meetings and discussions.
• Integration with Nextcloud: As an integral part of the Nextcloud ecosystem, Talk seamlessly integrates with other Nextcloud apps, providing a unified experience that encompasses communication, document management, and more.
• User-Friendly Interface: Nextcloud Talk boasts an intuitive and user-friendly interface, making it easy for both technical and non-technical users to initiate video calls, send messages, and collaborate effortlessly.

Pros

• Nextcloud Talk’s commitment to end-to-end encryption ensures that your business conversations are shielded from any potential breaches or data leaks.
• As an open-source solution, Nextcloud Talk eliminates the costs associated with proprietary communication tools while offering similar, if not superior, functionalities.
• For organizations already utilizing Nextcloud, Talk seamlessly integrates into the existing infrastructure, creating a holistic and interconnected workspace.
• Nextcloud’s open-source nature enables businesses to tailor Talk to their specific needs, allowing for flexibility and adaptability in communication.

Cons

• While Nextcloud Talk is robust, the initial setup and configuration may require some technical knowledge. This can be overcome with the assistance of IT professionals or Nextcloud community support.
• Nextcloud Talk is best suited for businesses that have already embraced Nextcloud’s broader suite of tools. It may be less attractive for those seeking a standalone communication solution.

Pricing

Nextcloud Talk is available for free.

Who Should Use It?

Nextcloud Talk is an excellent choice for businesses that prioritize data security, seamless collaboration, and cost-effectiveness. It’s particularly beneficial for organizations that have already integrated Nextcloud into their operations, as Talk complements and enhances the existing suite of tools.

Rocket.Chat

Rocket.Chat is a leading open-source team communication and collaboration platform that has revolutionized the way teams interact and work together. 

With its diverse range of features and robust capabilities, Rocket.Chat empowers organizations to foster seamless communication and streamline their workflows.

Key Features

• Unified Communication: Rocket.Chat offers a comprehensive suite of communication tools, including text, voice, and video chat, ensuring that teams can collaborate effectively regardless of their physical location.
• Chat Rooms: Users can create dedicated chat rooms for various projects, teams, or topics, facilitating organized discussions and knowledge sharing.
• Integration Hub: Rocket.Chat’s integration capabilities allow users to connect their favorite apps and services, centralizing information and enhancing productivity.
• Security and Customization: The platform provides end-to-end encryption for secure communication and extensive customization options to tailor the experience to your organization’s needs.
• Scalability: Rocket.Chat’s scalable architecture ensures that it can accommodate the needs of small teams as well as large enterprises, making it suitable for businesses of all sizes.

Pros

• Open-Source Advantage: Rocket.Chat’s open-source nature allows for transparency, customization, and continuous improvement through community contributions.
• Modern Interface: The platform offers a modern and intuitive interface that simplifies navigation and enhances user experience.
• Flexibility: Rocket.Chat’s flexibility in terms of deployment options (self-hosted or cloud-based) provides organizations with choices that suit their preferences and requirements.
• Rich Communication: Beyond text, Rocket.Chat facilitates voice and video communication, making it a versatile solution for various communication needs.

Cons

• Technical Learning Curve: As an open-source platform with advanced features, Rocket.Chat might require some technical proficiency during setup and customization.
• Maintenance Responsibility: Organizations opting for self-hosted deployment need to manage updates, security, and maintenance themselves.

Pricing

Rocket.Chat’s open-source nature means that the core functionality is available for free. 

However, organizations can choose to opt for Rocket.Chat’s Enterprise plan, which offers additional features, support, and customization options. The pricing for the Enterprise plan varies based on the number of users and the features required.

Enterprise Plan: Contact Rocket.Chat’s sales team for a personalized quote based on your organization’s needs.

Who Should Use It?

Rocket.Chat is an excellent fit for organizations of all sizes and industries that value efficient and secure communication. It caters to remote teams, distributed workforces, and companies looking to streamline their communication processes. Its open-source foundation, combined with its scalable and feature-rich nature, makes it a versatile solution for a wide range of communication needs.

Wire

Wire stands out as a leading secure messaging and video conferencing platform that prioritizes both user privacy and collaboration. 

With its seamless integration of secure communication tools, Wire empowers individuals and businesses to communicate effectively while maintaining a high level of data security.

Key Features

• End-to-End Encryption: Wire’s commitment to security is evident through its implementation of end-to-end encryption, ensuring that messages and calls remain private and confidential.
• Secure File Sharing: Wire allows users to securely share files and documents, ensuring that sensitive information is protected from unauthorized access.
• High-Quality Video Calls: The platform offers high-quality video conferencing, enabling crystal-clear conversations for remote teams and clients.
• Cross-Platform Compatibility: Wire is available across multiple platforms, including desktop and mobile devices, ensuring that communication remains consistent regardless of the device being used.
• Collaboration Tools: Alongside messaging and video conferencing, Wire provides collaboration features like group chats, which enable seamless teamwork and information sharing.

Pros

• Security: Wire’s strong emphasis on end-to-end encryption and secure communication makes it an ideal choice for businesses and individuals who prioritize data protection.
• User-Friendly Interface: Wire boasts an intuitive and user-friendly interface, making it easy for both tech-savvy and less tech-savvy users to navigate the platform.
• Modern Design: The platform’s modern design and layout contribute to an enjoyable user experience, enhancing engagement and usability.
• Team Collaboration: Wire’s combination of messaging, video conferencing, and file sharing fosters effective team collaboration, even among remote or distributed teams.

Pricing

Wire is free to download.

Who Should Use It?

Wire is an excellent choice for businesses and individuals who prioritize security and privacy in their communication and collaboration tools. Professionals in industries such as healthcare, finance, legal, and remote teams can benefit from Wire’s secure messaging and video conferencing capabilities.

Zulip

Zulip is a dynamic and innovative team communication platform that stands out for its unique approach to messaging. With its threaded chat model and powerful integrations, Zulip revolutionizes the way teams collaborate and stay connected. 

Whether you’re a small startup or a large enterprise, Zulip offers a fresh perspective on team communication that enhances productivity and engagement.

Key Features

• Threaded Conversations: Zulip’s threaded chat model organizes discussions into separate threads, preventing conversations from getting lost in a sea of messages. This feature promotes clarity and allows team members to focus on specific topics without confusion.
• Rich Integrations: Zulip seamlessly integrates with a wide range of tools and services, enabling teams to centralize their communication. Integrations with popular applications like GitHub, JIRA, and Trello streamline workflows and keep everyone on the same page.
• Notification Controls: Customizable notification settings ensure that team members receive alerts for conversations that matter most to them. This reduces noise and helps individuals stay informed without feeling overwhelmed.
• Topic-Based Streams: Zulip offers topic-based streams where team members can engage in discussions related to specific projects or areas of interest. This structured approach to communication encourages focused collaboration.
• Real-Time Collaboration: Zulip provides real-time messaging capabilities, allowing teams to engage in instant discussions, share files, and make decisions efficiently.

Pros

• Threaded Structure: The threaded chat model enhances organization and clarity, making it easy to follow conversations and contribute to discussions.
• Integration Ecosystem: Zulip’s extensive integrations with popular tools enhance productivity and reduce the need to switch between applications.
• Customizable Notifications: Team members have control over their notification preferences, ensuring that they stay informed without distraction.
• Efficient Collaboration: The combination of topic-based streams and real-time messaging fosters efficient collaboration, leading to quicker decision-making.
• Open Source: Zulip’s open-source nature allows for customization and flexibility, catering to unique team requirements.

Cons

• Learning Curve: While the threaded chat model is a powerful feature, it may require an adjustment period for teams accustomed to traditional chat interfaces.
• Less Familiarity: Zulip’s unique approach might require some team members to adapt to the new way of communication.

Pricing

Zulip’s pricing structure is designed to accommodate a variety of team sizes and needs:

• Free Plan: Zulip offers a free plan with basic features, making it an excellent option for small teams and startups.
• Standard Plan: $6.67 per user per month
• Enterprise: Contact sales for quote.

Who Should Use It?

Zulip is an ideal solution for teams that value structured and focused communication.

Whether you’re a software development team coordinating projects or a remote team working on diverse tasks, Zulip’s threaded conversations and integrations can significantly improve collaboration and team dynamics. 

Its open-source nature also appeals to organizations looking for customization and control over their communication platform.

Methodology

In order to compile a comprehensive list of the 7 best open-source video conferencing software for enterprises, we employed a systematic approach that involved extensive research, evaluation, and comparison of various software solutions. 

The methodology outlined below provides an overview of the steps we took to curate this list:

Research

We began by conducting in-depth research to identify a wide range of open-source video conferencing software options available in the market. Through online resources, industry reports, user reviews, and software directories, we compiled a preliminary list of potential candidates.

Feature Analysis

We carefully analyzed the features and functionalities of each software solution on the preliminary list. We assessed key aspects such as video quality, scalability, security features, collaboration tools, integrations, and ease of use.

Security Evaluation

Security is paramount for enterprise-level video conferencing. We evaluated the security measures implemented by each software, including encryption protocols, data protection, and compliance with industry standards.

Scalability

Given the diverse needs of enterprises, we examined the scalability of each software solution. We considered whether the software could effectively accommodate the varying requirements of small teams, large organizations, and remote work setups.

User Experience

The user experience plays a significant role in the adoption of any software. We gathered user feedback and reviews to understand the overall user satisfaction, ease of navigation, and intuitive interface of each platform.

Comparative Analysis

We developed a comparison matrix that highlighted the standout features, security measures, scalability options, and user experience of each software. This allowed us to objectively compare the strengths and weaknesses of each solution.

Expert Opinion

We sought insights from industry experts, IT professionals, and communication specialists who provided valuable perspectives on the performance and suitability of the shortlisted software solutions for enterprise use.

Real-world Testing

In order to ensure the accuracy of our assessment, we conducted practical tests of the software platforms. This involved hosting virtual meetings, evaluating video quality, testing collaboration tools, and exploring integrations.

Selection Criteria

Based on the analysis, comparison, and expert insights, we established a set of stringent selection criteria to identify the top 10 open-source video conferencing software solutions that best address the needs of enterprises.

Final Evaluation

The shortlisted software underwent a final round of evaluation to ensure that they met the predetermined selection criteria. This step helped us refine the list to include the most reliable and effective solutions.

What to Look for in Open Source Video Conferencing Software

Selecting the right open-source video conferencing software for your enterprise involves careful consideration of various factors to ensure a seamless and productive communication experience. 

Here are key aspects to look for when evaluating different options:

Video and Audio Quality

A high-definition video and clear audio are essential for effective communication. Look for software that offers reliable video and audio quality, minimizing disruptions during virtual meetings.

Security Features

Security is paramount when sharing sensitive information. Ensure the software provides end-to-end encryption, secure data transmission, and compliance with industry standards to safeguard your conversations.

User Interface

An intuitive and user-friendly interface enhances the user experience. Seek software with a straightforward layout, easy navigation, and clear icons to minimize the learning curve for your team.

Scalability

As your enterprise grows, so will your communication needs. Opt for software that can easily accommodate the increasing number of participants, both in terms of video quality and meeting capacity.

Collaboration Tools

Effective collaboration requires tools such as screen sharing, document sharing, and whiteboarding. Choose software that offers these features to facilitate real-time discussions and presentations.

Integration Possibilities

Integration with other tools and services is crucial for streamlined workflows. Look for software that supports integrations with project management, CRM, and productivity apps that your team already uses.

Platform Compatibility

Ensure the software is compatible with various devices and operating systems. This flexibility allows team members to join meetings using their preferred devices, enhancing accessibility.

Recording and Playback

The ability to record meetings for later reference is valuable. Look for software that offers recording options and easy playback to ensure important discussions are not lost.

Customization

Every enterprise has unique needs. Seek software that allows for customization, enabling you to tailor the interface, features, and settings to align with your business requirements.

Support and Documentation

Reliable customer support and comprehensive documentation are essential for addressing any issues that may arise. Check for software that offers responsive support channels and a knowledge base.

Open Source Community

A strong open-source community indicates ongoing development, regular updates, and a wealth of resources. Engaged communities contribute to software stability and improvement over time.

User Reviews and Feedback

Research user reviews and feedback to understand real-world experiences with the software. This insight can provide valuable information about potential pros and cons.

Which Platform Should You Choose?

When it comes to selecting the perfect open-source video conferencing software, making a decision that aligns with your organization’s unique needs is crucial. 

Here’s a breakdown of which tools excel in different scenarios, catering to the diverse requirements of small businesses, medium-sized enterprises, and large corporations.

For Small Businesses

Small businesses prioritize cost-effectiveness, ease of use, and reliability in their choice of video conferencing software. These tools strike a balance between features and affordability

OpenMeetings: Providing essential web conferencing features, OpenMeetings is suitable for small businesses seeking reliable video communication without the need for extensive customization.

For Medium-Sized Enterprises

Medium-sized enterprises often require more advanced features and scalability to accommodate growing teams. These software options cater to such demands:

BigBlueButton: With its virtual classroom capabilities and interactive features, BigBlueButton suits medium-sized enterprises that engage in webinars, online training, and collaborative workshops.

Nextcloud Talk: Ideal for enhancing team collaboration, Nextcloud Talk integrates seamlessly with file sharing and project management tools, making it a valuable choice for medium-sized enterprises seeking unified communication.

For Large Corporations

Large corporations demand robust features, security, and the ability to host large-scale virtual events. These software options are tailored to such extensive requirements:

Jitsi Meet: With its strong security features and scalability, Jitsi Meet is an excellent option for large corporations that prioritize data protection while conducting meetings and conferences with a wide range of participants.

Rocket.Chat: Offering both video conferencing and a comprehensive collaboration platform, Rocket.Chat suits large corporations aiming for unified communication, team collaboration, and secure messaging.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 

What Is Open Source Video Conferencing Software?

Open source video conferencing software refers to communication platforms that are developed collaboratively by a community of developers. The source code is made publicly available, allowing anyone to view, modify, and contribute to the software. 

Why Should I Consider Using Open Source Video Conferencing Software?

Open source video conferencing software provides transparency, flexibility, and customization options. It allows organizations to have more control over their communication tools, enhance security, and adapt the software to their specific needs.

Are Open Source Video Conferencing Tools Secure?

Many open source video conferencing tools prioritize security by implementing encryption protocols and following industry best practices. 

Do These Tools Support Recording of Video Conferences?

Yes, most open source video conferencing tools support recording of video conferences. This feature allows you to capture important discussions, presentations, and meetings for future reference.

Can Open Source Video Conferencing Software Integrate With Other Tools?

Yes, many open source video conferencing tools offer integrations with popular productivity, project management, and communication tools. These integrations enhance collaboration and streamline workflows.

Conclusion

In a world that values connection and collaboration, open source video conferencing software offers an array of choices for enterprises to explore. Each platform brings its unique features, ensuring that businesses can find the perfect fit for their needs. 

Whether it’s the flexibility of Jitsi, the scalability of BigBlueButton, or the customization of OpenMeetings, these open source solutions empower enterprises to communicate, collaborate, and innovate on their terms. 

The world of video conferencing has expanded its horizons, and enterprises can now harness these powerful tools to transform the way they work, connect, and succeed.