Malai

What is Malai?

Malai is an open-source peer-to-peer networking tool that enables users to share local HTTP and TCP services with others without requiring tunnels, firewall configuration, or centralized cloud services. Built on iroh, a peer-to-peer networking library, Malai allows developers to expose development servers, databases, SSH servers, and other TCP services directly to collaborators. The tool operates without a central server, relying instead on a decentralized architecture. Users can share their local services using public bridges on kulfi.site or deploy their own bridge infrastructure using Malai's http-bridge command. This approach eliminates dependency on third-party hosting providers while maintaining straightforward sharing capabilities. Malai is designed for developers who need quick, ad-hoc access sharing during development and testing phases. The recent addition of TCP support in version 0.2.5 expanded its capabilities beyond HTTP to cover any TCP-based service. The project is maintained as open-source software and backed by FifthTry, the organization behind the fastn framework. Key characteristics include zero-configuration sharing, no firewall management required, and sovereign control over exposed services. Malai addresses the common development workflow need for temporary service access without the overhead of traditional VPN or tunneling solutions.