Getting started with Mastodon: Everything new users should know

Tired of centralized social media platforms? Mastodon might be your answer. This open-source, decentralized alternative to mainstream social networks is gaining traction among users seeking greater control over their data and online communities.

Here's what makes Mastodon different: it's not owned by any single company. Instead, it operates on a federated network where multiple independent servers coexist, each with its own rules and community standards. Users can join any instance that aligns with their interests, or even host their own.

For beginners just jumping in, the basics are straightforward—pick a server, create an account, and start connecting with like-minded people. The interface feels familiar if you've used Twitter, but the vibe is distinctly community-driven.

Why people are moving over? Data privacy, content moderation transparency, and genuine community ownership. It's the decentralized social experience Web3 advocates have been talking about.