MattermostLinux
vs
Microsoft Teams for EducationWindows
Mattermost as a Linux alternative to Microsoft Teams for Education
Updated
Our verdict
Mattermost can serve as a functional replacement for Microsoft Teams for Education for schools that prefer a self‑hosted, open‑source solution and are comfortable with a more developer‑centric interface. It covers real‑time chat, threaded discussions, video calls with screen sharing, and file storage, but it lacks built‑in classroom tools such as attendance tracking, assignment creation, and tight LMS integration. Educators who want full control over data and custom extensions will benefit, while those relying on Microsoft’s education ecosystem may find the experience incomplete.
- License
- Apache-2.0
- Price
- Free
- Latest version
- 6.3.1 (October 15, 2026)
- Rating
- —
What works the same
- Real‑time chat with threaded conversations
- Video conferencing and screen sharing
- File sharing and storage
- Cross‑platform support (Windows, macOS, Linux, mobile)
- API‑first design for integrations
What is different
- No native classroom management features (attendance, assignments)
- Limited built‑in LMS integration
- No native support for Microsoft Office document editing within the app
- Requires manual setup for self‑hosting and database configuration
- Less polished mobile app experience for non‑developer users
Opening your Microsoft Teams for Education files
Mattermost can store any file type, but it does not natively interpret or edit Microsoft Teams for Education files such as OneNote notebooks or Word documents. Users must download these files and open them with compatible office suites like LibreOffice or Microsoft Office for Windows. Exporting from Mattermost is a simple download; there is no direct conversion or import feature for Teams‑specific formats.
Switching from Microsoft Teams for Education to Mattermost, step by step
- Export Teams chat history and files using the Teams export tool or PowerShell scripts.
- Set up a Mattermost server (self‑hosted or cloud) and configure MySQL/PostgreSQL database.
- Create channels that mirror Teams classrooms and invite students and teachers as users.
- Upload exported files to the appropriate Mattermost channels and share links.
- Configure video call settings and test screen sharing before the first class.
- Train staff and students on Mattermost’s interface and key features.
- faq
Key features of Mattermost
- Self-hosted server option for full data control
- Deep integration with CI/CD and code repositories
- Support for MySQL and PostgreSQL databases
- Plugin system for extending functionality
- Channel-based organization for project topics
- API-first design for custom automation
How to install Mattermost on Linux
flatpak install flathub com.mattermost.Desktopsudo pacman -S mattermost3 other alternatives to Microsoft Teams for Education
Jitsi MeetJitsi Meet is an open-source video conferencing client that connects to any Jitsi server for secure…Open sourceFreeFlatpakJitsi Meet vs Microsoft Teams for Education
ElementElement is an open‑source, matrix‑based chat and video‑conference client for Linux.Open sourceFreeFlatpakElement vs Microsoft Teams for Education
ZulipZulip is an open-source group chat application that uses threaded conversations to manage high-volume team…Open sourceFreeFlatpakZulip vs Microsoft Teams for Education