The Problem
In today's digital world, most of our online activities, like chatting, sharing photos, or posting updates, happen on big platforms controlled by major companies, such as Facebook, Amazon, Google, Reddit, Microsoft, X/Twitter and so. These companies have rules about what you can post. They might remove your posts or even your entire account if they think you're not following their rules. They might also control who can see your posts and might use your private information for their own benefits, like advertising. There is a decreasing quality observed in online services and products by big-tech.
"Here is how platforms die: first, they are good to their users; then they abuse their users to make things better for their business customers; finally, they abuse those business customers to claw back all the value for themselves. Then, they die. I call this enshittification" - Cory Doctorow
What is a Protocol?
A protocol is a set of rules that helps computers exchange information with each other over the internet. Just like how people use different languages to talk to each other, computers use protocols to communicate.
Solution: Nostr Protocol
Nostr is a special kind of protocol that helps people share messages, posts, and even other stuff with each other, without needing a big company platform to manage everything. It uses something called relays—these are like helpers that pass messages from one person to another. Because Nostr isn't controlled by any single big company and uses many relays by independent people, no single relay can control or see all the information.
Why Use Nostr?
Here are some benefits:
- Your account: Access is by our own key, so called nsec. Only you have access to your own key if you manage it well.
- More Control: You can decide which relay to use, so you have more control over who handles your messages and information.
- Censorship-resistant : Since there's no central control by a big company, your posts are less likely to be removed unfairly.
- Freedom to Choose: You can choose from different relays and apps, so called clients, based on your preference. Like choosing different routes to reach a destination.
Nostr gives you more freedom and control over your online interactions, making it a popular alternative. Choose your alternative for the platforms you are using now from the list or discover Nostr by the Nostr.how getting started guide.