Jami
Open-source distributed communication tool for messaging and calls without servers.
Open the official app on jami.net
This tool is hosted by its maintainers. Click below to open jami.net in a new tab — it's their official demo.
Browse communication tools →What's next with Jami?
Choose how you want to get started.
Use it free
Open the official tool or demo — no account needed.
Self-host it
Run the open-source version on your own infrastructure.
What is Jami?
Jami is a decentralized, open-source communication platform designed for secure, private interactions without reliance on centralized servers. It enables users to exchange messages, make voice and video calls, and host group video conferences while maintaining end-to-end encryption. The software operates as a peer-to-peer network, allowing participants to connect directly without intermediaries. Target users include privacy-conscious individuals, remote teams, and organizations seeking to avoid third-party data storage. Jami addresses the need for secure, censorship-resistant communication by eliminating single points of failure and ensuring data remains under user control. Its decentralized architecture also mitigates risks associated with centralized platforms, such as data breaches or government surveillance.
How it works
Jami is a free/libre software project licensed under GNU GPLv3, developed by the Free Software Foundation. It provides a unified communication suite for messaging, voice/video calls, and multimedia sharing, prioritizing privacy and security through cryptographic protocols. The platform's primary purpose is to enable private, encrypted communication across multiple devices without requiring personal account creation. Users can join calls or chats anonymously, with data transmitted directly between participants. Jami supports instant messaging with text, audio, and video message recording. It facilitates group video conferences with screen sharing and media streaming, while its rendezvous point feature allows decentralized file transfers. The built-in extension platform enables developers to add custom functionality.
How to use it
- 1Download the Jami app from its official website or app stores. 2. Launch the application and create a new account without providing personal details. 3. Add devices by linking them to the same account via QR code or manual entry. 4. Initiate a call or chat by selecting contacts from the address book or inviting new participants. Practical tips: Use the 'Picture-in-Picture' feature for multitasking during calls. For group meetings, enable screen sharing to present content directly. Regularly update the software to access new features like shared services.
What it can do
- p2p communication
Use cases
Assumptions and limitations
Assumptions
- source: https://github.com/savoirfairelinux/jami-daemon
- license: GPL-3.0 — free to use
- privacy: Self-hosted — you control your data
Limitations
- Requires a stable peer-to-peer network for optimal performance
- Limited third-party app integrations compared to centralized platforms
- No built-in contact synchronization with external directories
- Learning curve for users unfamiliar with decentralized systems
- Potential latency in large group video conferences
Understanding the result
Open-source distributed communication tool for messaging and calls without servers.
Tool details
- Clearly flagged when a network request is needed.
- No account, no sign-up, and no tracking of your content.
- Powered by (GPL-3.0).
- Built with
- (savoirfairelinux/jami-daemon)
- License
- GPL-3.0
- Runs locally
- No — requires a network request
- Verification
- Not yet verified
- Input
- Query
- Output
- Text
Built with savoirfairelinux/jami-daemon. OpenToolVault provides the discovery and browser interface while crediting the original project maintainers.
- Built with
- License
- GPL-3.0
Open-source project
OpenToolVault is an independent directory. We are not affiliated with or endorsed by this project.
References
- / — GitHub Repository
Upstream project · GitHub
- GPL-3.0 License
Upstream project
Frequently asked
How does Jami ensure data privacy?
Jami uses end-to-end encryption with perfect forward secrecy, ensuring only participants can decrypt messages. All communications are routed through peer-to-peer connections, avoiding centralized servers. Data is stored locally on devices unless explicitly shared via rendezvous points, which require mutual consent from participants.
How does Jami's peer-to-peer architecture work?
Jami operates as a decentralized network where users connect directly without intermediaries. When initiating a call or chat, the software establishes a secure connection through a series of peer nodes, bypassing traditional servers. This reduces single points of failure and minimizes data exposure to third parties, though it may introduce latency in large-scale interactions.
How do I share files securely with others?
To share files, initiate a rendezvous point by selecting 'Share Files' in a chat. Both parties must agree to the transfer, and the file is encrypted during transmission. For larger files, use the 'Shared Services' feature to create a temporary, password-protected link accessible only to invited participants.
How does Jami compare to Signal or Zoom?
Unlike Signal, Jami lacks built-in support for SMS or contact syncing but offers decentralized file sharing and SIP integration. Compared to Zoom, Jami does not provide cloud storage or automatic recording features, but its peer-to-peer model avoids reliance on centralized servers. Both platforms prioritize encryption, but Jami's open-source nature allows greater customization.
What should I do if my call drops?
If a call disconnects, check your internet connection and restart the app. For persistent issues, verify that all linked devices are online and try re-establishing the connection through the 'Rendezvous Points' menu. If using a SIP client, ensure your phone line or VoIP provider is active.