I want to create a local network backup of my favorite sites using Kiwix/Debian based OS

Creating a Local Network Backup of Your Favorite Websites Using Kiwix and a Debian-Based Operating System

In the realm of digital archiving and offline access, tools like Kiwix have revolutionized the way enthusiasts preserve and browse web content without relying on an internet connection. Inspired by a recent demonstration where someone created an offline copy of Wikipedia using a Debian-based OS and Kiwix, you might wonder whether it’s feasible to do the same for any website, including lesser-known or obscure sites. This guide explores how you can set up your own offline version of your preferred websites, ideal for hosting on a small dedicated device such as a mini PC or NUC box.

Understanding the Process

Kiwix is an open-source application that allows users to download and browse offline copies of web content, primarily in the form of ZIM files. These files contain compressed web pages and media, enabling efficient storage and fast browsing without needing internet access.

Creating a Local Backup: Is It Possible?

Yes, with some caveats. While Kiwix is excellent for large, static repositories like Wikipedia, creating offline versions of individual websites—especially lesser-known or dynamic sites—requires converting their current content into a suitable format, such as a ZIM file. This process involves:

Gathering Website Data: You can “snapshot” the website’s current state, typically using web crawling tools.
Converting to ZIM Format: Using specific tools or online services to package the collected data into a ZIM file that Kiwix can read.

Tools and Methods

Web Crawlers: Utilities like HTTrack or Wget can download entire websites for offline browsing. These tools are flexible and support recursive downloading, allowing you to mirror web content locally.
ZIM File Creation: Once you have the website data, you need to convert it into a ZIM file. Zimtools or the online Zim creation platform (https://zimit.kiwix.org/#/) facilitate this process by packaging your downloaded content into a compatible format.
Kiwix Server: After creating the ZIM file, you can deploy it on a local server using Kiwix-serve or Kiwix Desktop, enabling access through a web browser on your network. This setup turns your mini PC or NUC into an offline web server hosting your chosen sites.

Use Cases and Considerations