Fediverse, the open-source universe for those who want to protect their data
What is the Fediverse and why should you know about it?
Are you tired of social media platforms that invade your privacy, flood you with ads, or decide what you see with their algorithms? Then it's time to discover the fediverse.
The fediverse (a portmanteau of "federated" and "universe") is an ecosystem of decentralized social networks that, although located on different servers, can communicate with each other thanks to open standards like ActivityPub. Imagine something like email: you can have an account on one server and talk to someone on another. It works like this!
Some fediverse platforms:
- Mastodon: an alternative to Twitter/X, without algorithms or ads.
- Pixelfed: similar to Instagram, but without selling your data.
- PeerTube: a decentralized alternative to YouTube.
- Pleroma: a lightweight and flexible network.
- Funkwhale: Perfect for sharing and discovering music.
Why is it different?
- Decentralization: No single company controls everything.
- Interoperability: You can interact with users on other platforms.
- Autonomy: Anyone can create their own server.
- Privacy: You decide what you share and with whom.
Since October 2022, when Elon Musk bought Twitter, thousands of users migrated to Mastodon in search of more ethical and open alternatives. Currently, the fediverse has over 12 million registered accounts. Although it's still small compared to giants like Facebook, its community is active, diverse, and highly engaged.
Who uses it?
- Technology, privacy, and open source enthusiasts.
- Artists, academics, and activists looking for safe spaces.
- People who want to escape the noise of algorithms and ads.
Why isn't it more popular yet?
Because it might be a little different from what you're used to. There's no one-size-fits-all app or universal design. Every server has its own rules and style. But if you're willing to explore something new, the fediverse could change the way you experience yourself online.
If you care about your privacy and want a more humane and free social experience, the fediverse is for you.
By Rolando Camelo
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