Tox

Tox is a peer-to-peer (serverless) communication network and protocol used by messaging clients to provide private conversations without relying on central servers. It focuses on end-to-end encrypted chat and real-time audio/video features while keeping user identities based on cryptographic keys.

Key Features

• Peer-to-peer networking without central servers for message routing
• End-to-end encryption and authentication implemented via libsodium/NaCl primitives
• Instant messaging with friend requests and contact-style identities (public-key based)
• Encrypted voice and video calls (A/V support depends on client build)
• Screen sharing and file sharing support in Tox clients
• Group chats supported by the protocol and ecosystem clients

Use Cases

• Private one-to-one messaging and calls without a hosted backend
• Building custom bots or automation around the Toxcore client library API
• Secure team or community group chats in environments where central servers are undesirable

Limitations and Considerations

• The core library and network have historically been described as experimental and not formally audited as a complete system
• Bootstrapping into the network requires known bootstrap nodes and proper client configuration

Tox is best viewed as the underlying protocol and core library (Toxcore) powering multiple desktop and mobile clients. It is a strong fit for users who want decentralized communications with modern encryption and a client ecosystem rather than a single hosted service.