Welcome! RefBytes is a hosting service built just for Omeka, the free publishing platform used by libraries, museums, archives, and researchers to share collections and exhibits online.
If you have ever tried to set up Omeka on your own, you know there is a lot to it. You need a server, a database, security certificates, backups, and someone to keep it all updated. Platform Manager takes care of all of that so you can spend your time on the part that matters: your collection.
What we handle for you
- Hosting. Your site runs on fast, managed servers. There is nothing for you to install or maintain.
- Security. Every site can have a free SSL certificate, so visitors see the padlock in their browser.
- Backups. We back up your site's database automatically every night, and you can create a backup yourself any time.
- Updates. When a new version of Omeka comes out, upgrading is a single click in your dashboard.
- Plugins and themes. Browse a built-in catalog and install them without touching any code.
A quick look around
When you sign in, you land on your dashboard. Here is what you will find in the menu:
📷 Screenshot: The dashboard after signing in, showing the Sites list with the navigation menu visible on the left.
- Sites is where you create and manage your Omeka sites. Most of your time here starts on this page.
- Modules and Themes hold any custom plugins or themes you upload for your team.
- Templates let you save a site setup you like and reuse it to create new sites.
- Users is where you invite teammates to share your account.
- Billing takes you to your plan, invoices, and payment details.
Ready to start?
If you are brand new, these two guides will get you up and running:
And if you are not sure which flavor of Omeka is right for your project, we wrote a short guide to help: Omeka Classic vs Omeka S.
If you get stuck at any point, we are happy to help. Open a support ticket from the Support link in the menu and we will get back to you.