Hermes is a client to allow users to interact with the Scuttlebutt network. Some other clients are [Manyverse](https://manyver.se), [Oasis](https://github.com/fraction/oasis), and [Patchbay](https://github.com/ssbc/patchbay).
**Q: What is Scuttlebutt?**
Scuttlebutt (SSB for short) is a P2P, decentralized social network.
There are no servers needed, data is passed directly between users, either over local networks, bluetooth, or using pub servers/rooms.
It works like any other social network. You can follow people, like their posts, and share messages.
It even supports end-to-end encrypted private messages!
All posts are stored locally, so you can read, like, and post, even when offline!
Your data will be synced with the rest of the network the next time you go online.
You can go to the official [site](https://scuttlebutt.nz/about/) to learn more.
**Q: How inclusive is it?**
The Hermes client itself is created by a bunch of queer anarchists, and we plan on strictly implementing a code of conduct for anyone participating as well.
In terms of the SSB network itself, it's much better than most other P2P networks. At least from my network graph, it's mostly filled with accepting left-leaning people.
**Q: How private is it?**
Your posts are synced with anyone connecting with you. Messages cannot be deleted (at the moment).
This is a hard problem to properly fix however, since you'd have to trust that every single person with your post deletes the message.
It's the same problem with centralized networks however, you can't fully trust that Twitter or Facebook will fully delete your data from their servers.
**Q: How is it funded?**
Currently, we're all working on it for free. We plan on accepting donations through various means however.
We will *never* accept VC funding or anything like that however. This will always be a community anti-capitalist project.
We will also never accept investors, implement paywalls, ads, blockchain shit, or analytics.