Matrix

Matrix is a free, open, secure, and decentralized protocol for real-time communication at the Fritz Haber Institute of the MPG.

Why Matrix?

Open Standard: Avoids vendor lock-in.
Federated Communication: A global chat network similar to e-mail, rather than an isolated silo.
Flexible Chat Options: Supports 1:1 direct messages, group chats, team channels, and topic-specific rooms.
Decentralized, Persistent & Interoperable: No single point of control, bridgeable to other messaging networks.
Privacy & Encryption: End-to-end encryption is enabled by default for 1:1 chats and group rooms (can be disabled in groups if desired).
Multi-Platform: Available via web browser, desktop clients, and mobile apps.
Contact Protection: Address book uploads are not required; contacts on your phone are not shared with third parties.
Integration: Connects to FHI single sign-on systems.
Security Audit: Successfully completed independent security audits.
Autonomy: Locally hosted server at the FHI Berlin.
Presence Detection: Check online/offline/away status of colleagues.
Active Development: Highly adopted and growing in academic/scientific environments.

First Steps - How to Use Matrix

Members and affiliates of the FHI Berlin can log in with their FHI account to communicate with colleagues, university members, and external academic partners via chat, audio, and video calls.

The local FHI Homeserver name is: trinity.fhi.mpg.de

Homeserver URL: https://trinity.fhi.mpg.de

We recommend using the Element Desktop Client because it avoids various encryption and key-sharing issues that can occur when using Matrix inside a web browser.

Downloads for the Element Client:

Windows: Element Setup (Windows x64)
macOS: Element DMG (macOS)
Linux: Linux Installation Guide

Linux installation source: TU Dresden Matrix Documentation