Mastodon - What is it? Why should I join? How to join?

20 Dec 2022 Share on:

What is Mastodon?

Mastodon is a decentralized, open-source social media platform that allows users to create and join communities called “instances.” Each instance is run by a different administrator and has its own rules and moderation policies. Mastodon is based on the same technology as Twitter, but it is not owned by a single company and is not subject to the same centralized control.

Why Join Mastodon?

There are several reasons why you might want to join Mastodon:

1. Decentralization: As mentioned earlier, Mastodon is decentralized, which means that it is not owned or controlled by any one company or organization. This gives users more control over their content and privacy, as well as the ability to choose which communities they want to be a part of.

2. Inclusivity: Many Mastodon instances have a focus on inclusivity and diversity, and strive to create safe and welcoming communities for all users. This can be especially appealing for those who have felt marginalized or excluded on other social media platforms.

3. Customization: Each Mastodon instance is unique and can be customized to meet the needs and interests of its community. This allows for a wide range of communities to form and thrive on the platform.

How to Join Mastodon?

1. Choose an instance: The first step to joining Mastodon is to choose an instance to join. There are many different instances to choose from, each with its own focus and community. Here are a couple of examples of specific Mastodon instances that you might be interested in checking out:

   • eMacs.ch: This is a Mastodon instance that is focused on the Emacs text editor and related topics. It is a great place for Emacs users to connect and discuss their experiences with the software.
   • fosstodon.org: This is an instance that is focused on free and open-source software (FOSS). It is a great place for FOSS enthusiasts to connect and discuss their favorite projects and technologies.

2. Create an account: Once you’ve chosen an instance, you can create an account by visiting the instance’s website and following the prompts. You will need to choose a username and set a password.

3. Customize your profile: After you’ve created your account, you can customize your profile by adding a profile picture, bio, and other information.

4. Explore and interact: Once you’ve set up your account, you can start exploring Mastodon and interacting with other users. You can follow other users, create and join communities, and post updates (called “toots”).

Mastodon is a dynamic and diverse platform that offers users a lot of flexibility and control. Whether you’re looking for a more privacy-conscious alternative to traditional social media platforms, or you want to join a community of like-minded individuals, Mastodon has something to offer.