Email

Instant Messanger: XMPP

WHY?: XMPP is a really cool open protocol that allows end-to-end encrypted instant messaging and federated messaging. Maybe that doesn't make sense to you, but let's just say it's good for privacy and freedom.

XMPP supports private messaging, group chats, calls, file sharing, and much more.

This method of communication is only for people I know and trust. If you're someone I personally know and haven't connected online using XMPP, then it'd be cool to have you join the server. If you know me, you might have another way of contacting me or you can just use the above email address, but you'll need to create an account on my XMPP server with a supported client. See below for more information, it's not hard to set up unless you're braindead.

How to Chat with Me Via XMPP

HEY! Before you go through the process, make sure you've talked to me so I can open up the server for you to join, otherwise you'll have a hard time!

Step 1: Download a Client

A client is just an application that can use a certain protocol, like downloading an email client to connect to your email without using a web browser. You can use multiple clients across separate devices to log in to your XMPP account just like anything else.

For mobile users on Android, I'd recommend Conversations. Download it for free from F-Droid.

Desktop and laptop users ought to use Gajim. Download it for free from their official website.

Step 2: Create an Account on the Server

Using Conversations for Android

  1. Open Conversations.
  2. Click "create new account".
  3. Click "use my own provider".
  4. In the XMPP address field, enter a username followed by an @, then the URL of my server which I will give to you. Example: noob@example.com.
  5. In the password field, make strong password and store it in a good password manager such as KeePassXC and KeePassDX.
  6. Click the next button.

Using Gajim for Windows/macOS/Linux/BSDs

  1. Open Gajim.
  2. A welcome window should appear prompting to add an account.
  3. In the top text box, enter a username followed by an @, then the URL of my server which I will give to you. Example: noob@example.com.
  4. In the password field, make strong password and store it in a good password manager such as KeePassXC and KeePassDX.
  5. Click the sign up button.

Step 3: Enjoy!

You should now be a member of the server. I'll get a notification that you've registered and I'll send you a message, otherwise, if I've already provided a username then you can message me first. Make sure that you have enabled OMEMO encryption if you're using Gajim, click the padlock icon next to the text box to enable it!!!