Convex is an open-source reactive database and backend platform designed for web application developers, including those using LLMs. It provides a unified solution for data storage, server-side logic execution, and client-side data synchronization, enabling the creation of dynamic, live-updating applications with strong consistency using pure TypeScript.

How It Works

Convex operates as a full-stack reactive database, combining a persistent data store with a serverless function execution environment. It leverages a unique approach to data management and real-time updates, allowing developers to write business logic and data queries in TypeScript. This reactive model automatically pushes data changes to connected clients, simplifying the development of interactive user interfaces.

Quick Start & Requirements

• Cloud Platform: The easiest way to start is via the Convex cloud platform, which offers a free tier.
• Self-Hosting: For self-hosting, Docker is recommended or a prebuilt binary can be used. Detailed instructions are available in the self-hosting guide. Community support for self-hosting is on Discord.
• Building from Source: Instructions are in BUILD.md.
• Prerequisites: While not explicitly detailed for self-hosting, the repository structure suggests Rust and Node.js/npm are core dependencies. Convex is most thoroughly tested on Linux and macOS; Windows support is less mature.

Highlighted Details

• Provides a unified backend: database, server functions, and client libraries.
• Enables strong consistency with pure TypeScript for queries and mutations.
• Self-hosted version is compatible with various databases and deployment platforms (Neon, Fly.io, Vercel, Netlify, RDS, Sqlite, Postgres).
• Includes an opt-out telemetry beacon for product improvement.

Maintenance & Community

Development is led by the Convex team, with regular syncing of internal development. Feedback and bug fixes are welcomed. Community support and discussions are available on Discord. Issues can be reported via GitHub Issues.

Licensing & Compatibility

The README does not explicitly state the license. However, the project is open-source and developed by the Convex team. Compatibility for commercial use or closed-source linking would depend on the specific license, which needs to be confirmed.

Limitations & Caveats

Windows support is less mature than Linux and macOS. The self-hosted builds include an anonymous telemetry beacon, which can be disabled via a flag. The README does not detail specific performance benchmarks or limitations of the self-hosted solution.