Bolt CMS

Bolt CMS is an open-source content management platform used for building and running websites. It functions as a server-side web application that supports both traditional CMS delivery and headless or decoupled architectures. This flexibility allows it to serve as a complete website builder or as a backend content repository that feeds data to separate front-end applications.

Users deploy Bolt to manage digital content through a web-based interface. The system allows for the creation of custom page types and fields to suit specific website requirements, making it suitable for developers who need a flexible content structure. Because it supports both traditional and decoupled modes, it fits a variety of workflows, from simple blogs to complex enterprise sites that require a dedicated API for content delivery.

Key features

• Built on the Symfony framework for extensibility
• YAML based configuration for pages, fields, and languages
• Native support for multiple languages with an editor available in 15 languages
• Integrated RESTful and GraphQL APIs
• Built-in dummy content generation for development and client previews
• Integration of Redactor and Article rich content editors
• Extension support via the Composer ecosystem

The software architecture relies on PHP and utilizes Doctrine for database management and Twig for templating. By leveraging API-Platform, it provides the necessary infrastructure for decoupled setups where the content is delivered to separate front-end applications. Developers can extend the core functionality by writing custom code directly within their projects or by installing third-party extensions from the Composer ecosystem. The use of YAML for configuration ensures that adding new page types or languages does not require complex database migrations or deep code changes.

Bolt CMS serves as a versatile tool for developers seeking a PHP-based system that balances traditional site management with modern API delivery. It provides a structured environment for content creators while maintaining a developer-centric approach to configuration and extension.