GNU/Gang Server

What is GNU/Gang?

GNU/Gang is a Matrix Room set up by yours truly. It's primarily oriented around technology due to the nature of my main channel, but not exclusively so you're free to talk about whatever you like for the most part.

Rules (mostly just common sense)

  1. Don't endorse anything illegal or show anything containing NSFW (e.g., porn, gore).

    2. We take this rule very seriously, even violating once is enough to be banned.

  2. Treat others how you'd like them to treat you.

    3. You don't have to agree with or even like people, but bullying and discrimination (e.g., racism, sexism) are strictly prohibited.

  3. Don't spam.

    4. It's very annoying so just don't do it.

  4. Do not join if you're under 16.

Guidelines

These things are not explicitly forbidden, it's mostly just advice:

  1. Self-promo is fine in moderation, just don't be intrusive/annoying about it.

  2. For the sake of clarity, try to keep the conversation in English where possible.

  3. By all means, have fun chatting with others (that's why this room exists exists), but don't sacrifice it over more important things (studies, work, health, and irl relationships).

  4. You're allowed to talk about controversial subjects like politics, but I'd prefer if you didn't.

Questions you may have

  1. What's the difference between Matrix and Element?

    2. Matrix is the chat protocol, Element is a program (client) you use for talking on Matrix. However, there are other Matrix clients (e.g., Cinny, Schildichat, Gomuks).

  2. Why don't you host your own Matrix Homeserver?

    3. Believe me, I've tried, but I couldn't get it to work reliably.

  3. Is Matrix like Discord?

    4. The short answer is no. However, some Matrix clients do have a Discord-like appearance.

  4. What is Matrix federation like?

    5. Think of it like email...a Gmail user can send and receive emails to/from an Outlook user because email is a standard protocol. Matrix does the same thing, but for instant messaging.

  5. What homeserver should I use?

    6. I'd advise against using matrix.org because it's the default (and therefore kinda slow since a lot of people are using it). I'd also avoid homeservers with overly strict moderation. It might also be wise to avoid really small homeservers since the owner could close it without any notice.

    Examples of good homeservers (based on my research) include halogen.place (formerly halogen.city), and monero.social. Though of course, hosting your own homeserver is the only way you can guarantee the longevity of your account.