Relaynet

Building networked apps that can remain connected in the event of a complete Internet shutdown

Relaynet will make it possible to build networked desktop and mobile apps that can remain connected when the Internet is completely shut down (by switching to a sneakernet, for example). Relaynet-compatible apps can be centralized or decentralized (without servers). Pre-existing software can also be adapted to use the technology; in fact, Relaynet's proof of concept made it possible to post and receive tweets over a sneakernet. With OTF's support, Relaynet will build the foundation of the technology so it can be used by desktop and Android apps.

Get the word out

Current project status

Just an idea (Pre-alpha)

It exists! (Alpha/Beta)

It's basically done (Release)

People use it (Production)

Funding to date

2019 $127,757 9 months

Internet Freedom Fund

Total Funding: $127,757

Addressed problems

Blocking, filtering, or modification of political, social, and/or religious content (including apps)
Localized or nationwide communications shut down or throttling (Blackouts)
Prohibitive cost to access the Internet
Restrictive Internet filtering by technical methods (IP blocking, DNS filtering, TCP RST, DPI, etc.)

Focus

Access to the Internet

Objective(s)

Software or hardware development
Technology development

Beneficiaries

Advocacy groups/NGOs
General public
Activists
Journalists
Technologists
Government

Region(s) archive

Global

Project status

Just an Idea (Pre-alpha)

Technology attributes

Networking
Server daemon
Software as a Service (SaaS)
Web API/Mobile application (serverside)
Wireless Communication
Cryptography

We wrote about it

November 2019 Monthly Report