Smolnet: A Universe of Lightweight Protocols

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Welcome to the Smolnet

The *small internet*—or *smolnet*—is a constellation of lightweight, text-based protocols that hark back to the early days of the internet, when simplicity and clarity reigned supreme. Here, we celebrate the protocols that keep the spirit of the old net alive, but with a modern twist.

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Finger: The Original Status Checker

Finger was one of the earliest protocols, designed to provide user information. It’s the digital equivalent of knocking on someone’s door to see if they’re home. Simple, direct, and unapologetically minimal.

=> finger://random@happynetbox.com/ Check who's around

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Gopher: The Hierarchical Explorer

Gopher is the granddaddy of them all—a hierarchical, menu-driven system that lets you browse files, directories, and resources with ease. No scripts, no bloat, just pure text-based navigation.

=> gopher://gopher.floodgap.com/1 Dive into Gopherspace

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Gemini: The Modern Minimalist

Gemini is the new kid on the block, designed for simplicity and security. It’s like the web, but without the JavaScript, the ads, or the complexity. Just you, your client, and the raw text.

=> gemini://gemini.circumlunar.space/ Explore the Gemini universe

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Nex: The Next-Gen Gopher

Nex is Gopher’s spiritual successor, adding modern features while keeping the soul of its predecessor. It’s Gopher, but with a few extra bells and whistles for those who want just a *little* more.

=> nex://mozz.us/ Experience Nex

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Spartan: The No-Nonsense Protocol

Spartan is the minimalist’s minimalist protocol. It strips everything down to the bare essentials, offering a raw, unfiltered experience for those who want to interact with the net in its purest form.

=> spartan://mozz.us/ Embrace Spartan simplicity

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Why Smolnet?

In a world of bloated web apps and attention-grabbing algorithms, smolnet protocols offer a breath of fresh air. They’re fast, private, and built for *you*—not for advertisers or tracking algorithms.

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Join the Movement

Want to dive in? All you need is a client for your protocol of choice. Here are a few to get you started:

- **Gemini**: [Lagrange](https://gmi.skyjake.fi/lagrange/), [Amfora](https://github.com/makeworld-the-better-one/amfora)

- **Gopher**: [Lynx](https://lynx.browser.org/), [OverbiteFF](https://addons.mozilla.org/en-US/firefox/addon/overbiteff/)

- **Finger**: Built into many Unix-like systems, or use a dedicated client.

- **Nex/Spartan**: Check out experimental clients in the smolnet community!

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This capsule is a love letter to the smolnet. Long live the small internet!*

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