What it does
4get is a metasearch proxy with configurable scrapers, proxy support, image proxying and a JavaScript-optional interface. Its official documentation explains temporary paging data and the sharing of queries with selected upstream services.
4get lets operators select upstream scrapers and configure proxy behavior. Its interface strips tracking parameters and works without JavaScript; image proxying reduces direct third-party image requests. The repository supplies deployment documentation and AGPLv3-only code.
The described public instance sends query terms and filters to the selected upstream service. For another page of results, it keeps encrypted next-page parameters in memory until used or 15 minutes pass, whichever happens first. That instance policy should be distinguished from another host’s configuration.
Strengths
- Configurable scrapers and proxy settings support self-hosting.
- The interface works without JavaScript.
- Image proxying and tracking-parameter removal are documented.
Best for
- People comfortable operating and maintaining a metasearch proxy
Sources
- lolcat/4get: 4get is a proxy search engine that doesn't suck - 4get - lolcat's git serber (Oct 26, 2026)
- About (Oct 26, 2026)