# openfsd: reconstructing the VATSIM FSD server protocol

> openfsd implements a multiplayer flight-simulation server for the reverse-engineered VATSIM FSD protocol. Its Go server connects pilots and controllers, while a detailed protocol reference maps message identifiers and its web interface manages users, settings and connections.

- Type: Case study
- Targets: Protocol
- Category: Independent reconstruction cases
- Relationship: Independent reconstruction project
- Sources reviewed: 2026-11-08
- Added to the catalog: 2026-11-09
- Original resource: <https://github.com/renorris/openfsd>
- Primary source: <https://github.com/renorris/openfsd/blob/79d5e2325cdd048489a865868ffff2d20e73dad1/docs/index.md>
- Catalog page: <https://awesomerea.org/resources/openfsd-case/>
- Record JSON: <https://awesomerea.org/resources/openfsd-case/record.json>
- Chinese version: [简体中文](https://awesomerea.org/zh/resources/openfsd-case/index.md)

## Requirements & limits

- **Prerequisites:** Docker and Docker Compose are listed for the preferred deployment method.
- **Scope:** SQLite and PostgreSQL are supported for persistent storage.
- **License:** MIT license.

## Primary sources

1. <https://github.com/renorris/openfsd/blob/79d5e2325cdd048489a865868ffff2d20e73dad1/docs/index.md>
2. <https://github.com/renorris/openfsd/blob/79d5e2325cdd048489a865868ffff2d20e73dad1/README.md>
3. <https://github.com/renorris/openfsd/blob/79d5e2325cdd048489a865868ffff2d20e73dad1/docs/protocol.md>

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## About this entry

The description was reviewed against primary sources.
Original editorial content: MIT. Linked projects, papers and assets retain their own rights and licenses.