Finding an open-source CRM solution that uses a database like MySQL or PostgreSQL on Windows, without needing to install additional software like XAMPP, can be achieved by looking for CRMs that provide a Windows installer or have a portable version. Here are some methods and options to consider:
Methods to Find Open-Source CRM Solutions
- GitHub and GitLab Repositories:
- Search for CRM projects on GitHub or GitLab with the keywords “CRM,” “MySQL,” or “PostgreSQL.” Look for projects with a lot of stars, forks, and recent activity.
- Examples: SuiteCRM, EspoCRM.
- Open Source Software Directories:
- Explore directories like SourceForge, AlternativeTo, or Opensource.com which list various open-source CRM solutions.
- Official Websites:
- Visit the official websites of well-known open-source CRMs. Many provide detailed installation instructions and may offer Windows-compatible versions.
Recommended Open-Source CRMs
- SuiteCRM:
- Description: A popular open-source CRM that is a fork of SugarCRM.
- Database Support: MySQL, MariaDB.
- Windows Installer: SuiteCRM provides an installer for Windows that includes all necessary components.
- Website: SuiteCRM
- EspoCRM:
- Description: A light and highly customizable CRM.
- Database Support: MySQL, MariaDB.
- Windows Installer: EspoCRM provides a detailed guide for Windows installation which can be done without XAMPP.
- Website: EspoCRM
- CiviCRM:
- Description: An open-source CRM designed for non-profit and civic organizations.
- Database Support: MySQL.
- Windows Installer: CiviCRM can be installed on Windows using a detailed guide without requiring XAMPP.
- Website: CiviCRM
- Yetiforce CRM:
- Description: A modern open-source CRM with many features.
- Database Support: MySQL, MariaDB.
- Windows Installer: Yetiforce provides a manual installation guide which can be followed to set up on Windows.
- Website: Yetiforce CRM
Steps to Install Without XAMPP
- Download and Install a Web Server:
- Use Microsoft’s IIS (Internet Information Services) which is built into Windows.
- Install IIS through “Turn Windows features on or off” in the Control Panel.
- Database Installation:
- Install MySQL or PostgreSQL using their native Windows installers available on their official websites.
- MySQL Installer for Windows
- PostgreSQL Installer for Windows
- CRM Installation:
- Download the CRM’s installation package from the official website or repository.
- Follow the installation guide provided by the CRM for configuring the web server (IIS) and database.
- Configuration:
- Configure the CRM according to the installation instructions, ensuring database connections and other settings are correctly set.
By following these steps and exploring the recommended CRMs, you can find and install an open-source CRM solution on Windows without needing additional software like XAMPP.