Rook

What Rook is

Rook is a free, open-source manager for local development environments, available on Linux, macOS, and Windows. Add a project directory and select a .test domain to run it with HTTPS using trusted certificates provided through mkcert. Rook manages multiple PHP versions and per-site FPM pools, allowing projects to use different versions without altering the system installation. Node.js support is built in, and it can manage MySQL, PostgreSQL, and Redis services without Docker or manual installs. The desktop app combines a web-based interface with native desktop performance. Its plugin architecture has an open API for community plugins, and its MIT license supports community contributions. Rook also lists runtime management, configuration as code, and container support. A shell installer detects the operating system and architecture, downloads the latest release, and installs the CLI and GUI, with an option to omit the GUI. The project credits Andy Barilla and lists Go, Wails, Caddy, and Svelte among its foundations. The Free plan costs nothing and described as open source and free forever.

Who it suits

Rook suits developers who want to manage local projects and development services across Linux, macOS, or Windows. Its per-project PHP configuration and built-in Node.js support may suit work involving different runtime needs.

Getting started

1. Open Rook's website at https://www.getrook.dev/.
2. Use the shell installer, which detects your operating system and architecture and downloads the latest release.
3. Install the CLI and GUI, or use the installer option that skips the GUI.
4. Add a project directory and choose a .test domain to run the site with HTTPS.

Verdict

Rook brings project setup, runtime management, and several database services into a free local development environment manager. Its listed features are geared toward desktop workflows rather than hosted development environments.