Nightscout connects your glucose data to a website and compatible apps. This guide explains the server, uploader and follower parts, and how managed Nightscout hosting helps you get started.
What is Nightscout?
Nightscout is an open-source project for storing, viewing and sharing glucose data from compatible sources. Your Nightscout site brings uploaded readings and any supported treatment records together in a browser.
A complete setup has three parts: a hosted Nightscout server, a source that uploads data, and the apps or displays you use to view it. A working website alone does not prove that new readings are arriving.
What does Nightscout Pro do?
Nightscout Pro hosts and maintains your own Nightscout site, including software updates. You choose a supported source and control access to your data. Pro Connect imports from supported cloud services; compatible uploader apps can also send data to your site.
Nightscout Pro builds on the community Nightscout project. The standard Nightscout ecosystem remains available, subject to each app’s requirements.
Managed hosting or self-hosting?
Nightscout software is free and open source. With self-hosting, you choose the infrastructure and maintain the deployment, database and updates. Managed hosting is a subscription for running and maintaining that service for you.
Compare Nightscout hosting prices and billing periods, or read the community Nightscout documentation for DIY options.
Set up your Nightscout server
- Create your account and review the subscription.
- Create your site and keep its exact Nightscout URL.
- Connect a supported source using the setup guides. Choose one intended glucose uploader.
- Compare a fresh source reading and timestamp with Nightscout before connecting more displays.
Which apps and sources can I use?
Start with the guide for Dexcom Share, FreeStyle Libre and LibreLinkUp, Medtronic CareLink or xDrip+ upload. If you use Loop, Trio or AAPS, read the APS connection guidance first.
Nightscout can open in a browser or feed compatible follower apps and displays. Nightscout Follow is our iPhone public beta; it is separate from the Nightscout server. Explore apps and displays and try the website demo with sample data.
Access and data coverage
Your account password, Nightscout API Secret and manufacturer account credentials serve different purposes. Keep credentials private and use appropriate viewing permissions when sharing. Read the security and access guide.
A glucose connection does not automatically include pump treatments, profiles, remote control or complete historical data. Check the records your exact source provides before choosing a setup.
Connection and alert limits
Nightscout data and alerts depend on your source, internet connection, third-party services and receiving app. They can be delayed or interrupted. Continue to use your primary glucose-monitoring device and its alarms according to the manufacturer’s instructions; do not rely on Nightscout as your only monitoring or warning system.
- Nightscout Pro is not a medical device
- It does not provide medical advice
- It does not replace clinical care
- It does not automatically modify insulin or treatment settings
Technical guidance checked against current Nightscout Pro setup guides on 10 November 2026. Third-party menu labels and availability can vary.