The Matrix decentralized communication tool tested
Talk Talk
© Lead Image © SORAPONG CHAIPANYA, 123RF.com
One tool to rule all online communication: one tool to find them, one tool to bring them all in, and the Matrix to bind them. An open standard for decentralized communication enters the scene.
In the last 20 years, users have seen a number of communication tools come and go on the Internet. Text-based classics like IRC and ICQ made way for audio and video chatting with Skype, Google Hangouts, and others. If you were in Facebook groups five years ago, like-minded people now meet on WhatsApp, Snapchat, or another mobile messaging application. It's difficult remembering your way around all the apps and programs and remembering who you meet on what channel.
Matrix [1] promises to reorganize online communication. The web-based RTC and HTTP protocol is released under the Apache license and aims to bring all the services together under a single roof: Everyone chats in the style they like but can still reach everyone else. End-to-end encryption and a free choice of clients are just a few of the features the developers are planning. In addition to text, video, and audio communication, the service is looking to provide interfaces for the Internet of Things.
Distributed but Shared
Matrix does not route communication via a central server, nor does it connect the participants' computers directly. Instead, home servers collaborate. They also act as account servers. Each user can be reached via a unique ID on the matrix network. The ID comprises the nickname and the server address, as in @Mela:matrix.org or @hej:matrix.org.
[...]
Buy this article as PDF
(incl. VAT)
Buy Linux Magazine
US / Canada
UK / Australia
Subscribe to our Linux Newsletters
Find Linux and Open Source Jobs
Subscribe to our ADMIN Newsletters
Support Our Work
Linux Magazine content is made possible with support from readers like you. Please consider contributing when you’ve found an article to be beneficial.
News
-
Fedora 42 Available with Two New Spins
The latest release from the Fedora Project includes the usual updates, a new kernel, an official KDE Plasma spin, and a new System76 spin.
-
So Long, ArcoLinux
The ArcoLinux distribution is the latest Linux distribution to shut down.
-
What Open Source Pros Look for in a Job Role
Learn what professionals in technical and non-technical roles say is most important when seeking a new position.
-
Asahi Linux Runs into Issues with M4 Support
Due to Apple Silicon changes, the Asahi Linux project is at odds with adding support for the M4 chips.
-
Plasma 6.3.4 Now Available
Although not a major release, Plasma 6.3.4 does fix some bugs and offer a subtle change for the Plasma sidebar.
-
Linux Kernel 6.15 First Release Candidate Now Available
Linux Torvalds has announced that the release candidate for the final release of the Linux 6.15 series is now available.
-
Akamai Will Host kernel.org
The organization dedicated to cloud-based solutions has agreed to host kernel.org to deliver long-term stability for the development team.
-
Linux Kernel 6.14 Released
The latest Linux kernel has arrived with extra Rust support and more.
-
EndeavorOS Mercury Neo Available
A new release from the EndeavorOS team ships with Plasma 6.3 and other goodies.
-
Fedora 42 Beta Has Arrived
The Fedora Project has announced the availability of the first beta release for version 42 of the open-source distribution.