BigBlueButton is an open-source virtual classroom and web conferencing system designed specifically for online learning and education. It runs in the browser (no app install needed) and provides live audio, video, and collaboration tools.
Unlike general conferencing tools (Zoom, Teams), BigBlueButton is purpose-built for educators. It equips teachers with tools like multi-user whiteboards, breakout rooms, shared notes, and polling to boost engagement. Many major LMS platforms like Moodle and Canvas integrate with it.
BigBlueButton is free and open-source under the LGPL license (no license fees). You can self-host on a Linux server (e.g., Ubuntu) or choose a hosted provider. You set up and run your server, or purchase commercial hosting/support if you don’t want to manage infrastructure yourself. Costs come from servers, bandwidth, and storage, not licensing.
