The Nostr protocol is a decentralized network protocol for a distributed social networking system. It is designed to enable global, decentralized, and censorship-resistant social media[1][2][3]. The name “Nostr” stands for “Notes and Other Stuff Transmitted by Relays”[3].
Key features of the Nostr protocol include:
- Simplicity: The protocol is based on simple and flexible event objects passed as plain JSON. It uses standard elliptic-curve cryptography for keys and signing[1][2].
- Resilience: Nostr is designed to be resilient and not rely on a small number of trusted servers for moving or storing data. The protocol assumes that relays may disappear, ensuring the system’s robustness[2].
- Censorship resistance: Posts on the Nostr network are resistant to censorship and are cryptographically validated[3].
Nostr is an open protocol, similar to HTTP or TCP-IP, upon which anyone can build. It is not a specific app or service that users sign up for[2]. The protocol allows for the creation of a censorship-resistant global social network[1].
Nostr has gained attention and support from notable figures such as Jack Dorsey, the co-founder of Twitter, who has endorsed and financially supported its development[3]. It offers an alternative to traditional social networks by providing a decentralized and resilient platform for exchanging signed messages[6].
To get started with Nostr, users can create an account and join the network. There are also various clients (apps) available for web, iOS, Android, and desktop platforms[1]. However, it’s worth noting that getting started with Nostr can be complex, and more information can be found on the official GitHub page[6].
Overall, the Nostr protocol aims to provide a decentralized and censorship-resistant solution for social media, empowering users to have control over their data and interactions on the network.
Citations: [1] https://nostr.com [2] https://nostr.how/en/what-is-nostr [3] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nostr [4] https://github.com/nostr-protocol/nostr [5] https://www.forbes.com/sites/digital-assets/2023/04/11/how-to-get-started-with-nostr/?sh=24ad6508406b [6] https://www.freethink.com/internet/nostr