PufferPanel review
A capable free panel for Linux operators managing multiple game servers.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
PufferPanel is a free, open-source, web-based control panel for running multiple game servers from one interface. It is aimed at personal users, small networks, and larger server networks that want centralized server controls, file access, provisioning, and multi-user administration. Deployment is self-hosted on supported Linux distributions or through Docker, making it a fit for operators who manage their own infrastructure.
Its strongest practical feature is the combination of template-based provisioning, Docker-based server environments, and remote node management. These capabilities support repeatable server creation across a distributed setup instead of limiting administration to one machine. The panel also includes web file management, SFTP access, RCON and Telnet support, user permissions, and access controls. CurseForge modpack support adds a useful path for supported modded game workflows, while the listed game coverage includes Minecraft, ARK, Rust, Factorio, Terraria, Valheim, and other server software.
PufferPanel’s free and open-source model makes it straightforward to evaluate without a paid tier structure. The trade-off is operational ownership: self-hosted software requires the operator to handle deployment, environment management, and ongoing administration. Backup support is described as basic, so teams seeking a dedicated backup automation workflow may need a different control panel or supporting tooling. Choose PufferPanel for free Linux-based multi-server management with Docker, remote nodes, and permissions. Choose an alternative if managed hosting, a hosted control plane, or deeper backup operations are the priority.
PufferPanel pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Free, open-source panel for managing multiple servers in one interface.
- Templates, Docker environments, and remote nodes support repeatable provisioning.
- Web files, SFTP, permissions, RCON, Telnet, and modpack support cover daily tasks.
- Where it doesn't
- Self-hosted deployment puts installation and maintenance on the operator.
- Backup capability is basic rather than a full backup automation workflow.
- Access is centered on supported Linux systems, Docker, and web management.
PufferPanel fact sheet, pricing and score →
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