Best On-Premises Encrypted Messaging Software of 2026

Element is a communications platform with security at its core, built on Matrix: a decentralised and end-to-end encrypted protocol. Element brings your teams together, boosts productivity and workplace satisfaction, while enabling complete ownership of your data. Easily collaborate with your partners, suppliers or clients with video calls and instant messaging: like email for the 21st century. You can even connect your Slack, MS Teams, WhatsApp accounts. On the other hand Element can be closed for high security environments using secure border and cross domain gateways, and even air-gapped deployments. Being built on Matrix, there is no single point of failure for the network thanks to the decentralised network architecture, making it perfect for mission-critical environments. For full data sovereignty, install Element into your own data centre or on-premise. Alternatively, let us manage your setup in our secure Element Cloud, in a region of your choice. In Forrester’s words: Element is a great fit for: "...organizations that prioritize flexibility, federation, and data sovereignty". Please contact us to explore how your business can benefit from Element.

Wire protects critical communications for the world’s most security-demanding organizations. Wire provides users with the highest level of security to ensure secure communication through the implementation of advanced encryption and zero-trust architecture. Additionally, it offers user administrators the ability to manage and control their organization's information while protecting the sovereignty of their data. Created by the founders of Skype, Wire provides end-to-end encryption for messages, audio and video conferencing, file exchange, external collaboration, and beyond. Used by the majority of the world's G7 governments, Wire is at the forefront of secure communication, pushing boundaries and leading the way in developing standard encryption through Messaging Layer Security. To learn more, visit wire.com.

Rocket.Chat is a communications platform that enables real-time conversations between colleagues, with other companies or with your customers. It does everything other platforms do, except exposing your data.

iCanText is a decentralized messaging app that facilitates peer-to-peer communication directly within contemporary web browsers, eliminating the need for servers, user accounts, or any personal identifiers, thereby guaranteeing users’ privacy and anonymity. Messages are transmitted directly between devices using end-to-end encryption, which conceals both the content and metadata such as the identities of the communicators, thereby reducing vulnerabilities associated with server storage, hacking, or monitoring. Users can easily create or join private workspaces using straightforward names or shareable links, enabling text conversations, photo sharing, and group spaces secured by passwords for various purposes, including clubs, teams, or professional dialogues. The application operates flawlessly across smartphones, tablets, and computers, requiring no installation or updates, and emphasizes ease of use for individual, community, or sensitive professional scenarios, including those involving lawyers and journalists. Overall, iCanText offers a streamlined solution for secure and private communication in today's digital landscape.