OpenSEO

What is OpenSEO?

OpenSEO is a free, pay-as-you‑go SEO tool designed as a lightweight alternative to expensive suites like Semrush or Ahrefs. It runs as a web application that you can self‑host via Docker or Cloudflare, or use the managed version at openseo.so. It’s built for SEO professionals and developers who want control over costs and data.

How to use OpenSEO?

To use OpenSEO, obtain a DataForSEO API key and set it in your environment. Self‑host using Docker (docker compose up -d) or deploy to Cloudflare via the provided button. Once running, open the app, go to AI & MCP to copy your MCP server URL, then connect any MCP‑compatible client (e.g., Claude Code, Codex, Claude Desktop) using commands like claude mcp add --transport http --scope user openseo <your‑url>. Approve the login when prompted.

Key features of OpenSEO

• Native MCP server for AI agent integration
• Keyword research with demand estimation and prioritization
• Rank tracking across desktop and mobile with SERP feature detection
• Domain visibility gain/loss analysis
• Backlink monitoring (newly won or lost links)
• Technical site audits with Lighthouse checks
• AI brand visibility and search prompt explorer
• No subscriptions – pay only for API usage

Use cases of OpenSEO

• Run keyword research and SERP analysis directly from your code editor via MCP
• Monitor daily rank movements for a portfolio of client domains
• Catch technical SEO issues early with automated site audits
• Discover how your brand appears in AI chatbot answers
• Identify linking opportunities and lost backlinks for competitive outreach

FAQ from OpenSEO

Is OpenSEO free? How does pricing work?

OpenSEO’s app is completely free to self‑host. You pay only for DataForSEO API usage (pay‑as‑you‑go, starting with $1 free credit and a $50 minimum top‑up).

What MCP clients does OpenSEO support?

OpenSEO works with any MCP client, including Claude Code, Claude Desktop, OpenAI Codex, and similar. Connect via the MCP URL shown in the app’s AI & MCP settings.

Can I self‑host OpenSEO? What options exist?

Yes. You can self‑host using Docker (for local/personal use) or deploy to Cloudflare (for internet‑facing access across devices or teams). Both methods are fully documented.

Do I need a DataForSEO subscription to use OpenSEO?

Yes. OpenSEO relies on DataForSEO for all SEO data. You must bring your own DataForSEO API key. Backlinks data additionally requires a DataForSEO Backlinks subscription (trial available).

Does OpenSEO support Google Search Console integration?

Google Search Console integration is optional and available in self‑hosted deployments only. It requires setting up your own Google OAuth client (see SELF_HOSTING_GOOGLE_SEARCH_CONSOLE.md).