XMPP (also known as Jabber) is a well-established instant messaging protocol used by millions every day, often without them realising it. Various popular messaging apps started out as XMPP chat clients before becoming something isolated, shiny and proprietary.
There are many reasons you might consider chatting through an XMPP client instead of joining the latest trending platform.
What is XMPP?
XMPP, short for Extensible Messaging and Presence Protocol, is a decentralised messaging standard similar to email. Anyone can create an XMPP account on one server and chat with someone registered on a completely different server. Like email, no single company has access to or control over all users’ data globally. You can choose from different XMPP providers, just as you can choose between different email providers.
Originally known as Jabber, XMPP serves as an internet standard that reduces the need for people to constantly reinvent the wheel. The code and specifications are open for anyone to study and implement. It is also relatively straightforward to set up an XMPP server that lets people create accounts and communicate with each other. This is why Google Talk, Facebook Messenger and WhatsApp all used XMPP to some degree. Although those companies chose to isolate their platforms, there are many open XMPP providers to choose from. One example of a Bulgarian XMPP provider is Chatrix.One.
XMPP has been around since 1999 and remains a standard that people actively develop and use. Many sites and services that include a chat feature continue to rely on XMPP, as is the case with the video conferencing service Jitsi Meet.
How do I use XMPP?
As mentioned, XMPP works like email. You create an account with a provider and can send messages to other XMPP users regardless of which provider they are registered with.
The first step is to find a provider you like. Many are free, while others may charge for server maintenance. A list of XMPP servers is available at providers.xmpp.net.
Once you have settled on a provider, you register an account. The process can vary depending on the provider; some offer registration through a website, others let you register directly through a mobile or desktop app.
When creating your account you will need to choose a username. XMPP usernames look a lot like email addresses, for example pesho@chatrix.one or penna.stoeva@chatrix.one. Everything after the @ symbol indicates the server where that username can be found.
Recommended XMPP clients
Windows
| Client | Description |
|---|---|
| Gajim | Full-featured desktop client |
Linux
| Client | Description |
|---|---|
| Gajim | Full-featured desktop client |
| Dino | Modern, visually clean client |
macOS
| Client | Description |
|---|---|
| Monal | Lightweight native client |
Android
| Client | Description |
|---|---|
| Conversations | The best mobile XMPP client |
iOS
| Client | Description |
|---|---|
| Monal | Recommended iOS client |
OMEMO encryption
OMEMO is an XMPP extension that provides end-to-end encryption. It is based on the Signal Protocol and offers forward secrecy, meaning that even if keys are compromised, past messages remain protected.
To enable OMEMO, select a contact and turn on encryption in the conversation settings. Most modern clients enable it automatically.
Conclusion
XMPP offers freedom, privacy and decentralisation that centralised platforms cannot provide. If you value independence in your communications, XMPP is the right choice.
Register a free account at Chatrix.One and see for yourself.