Overview
ZeroNet is an open-source platform for creating decentralized, censorship-resistant websites. It uses Bitcoin cryptography for site addressing and BitTorrent for content distribution.
- Bitcoin Cryptography: Sites identified by Bitcoin addresses
- BitTorrent: Peer-to-peer content distribution
- Namecoin: Optional .bit domain registration
- Tor Integration: Optional anonymity layer
How It Works
Site Addressing
Each ZeroNet site has a unique Bitcoin address as its identifier. This address is derived from the site owner's private key, ensuring cryptographic ownership.
Content Distribution
Seeding
When you visit a site, your ZeroNet client downloads and seeds the content to other users.
Updates
Site owners sign updates with their private key, and changes propagate through the network.
Persistence
As long as one peer hosts the content, the site remains accessible.
Features
- No hosting costs - peers share bandwidth
- Cannot be censored or taken down
- Works offline after initial download
- Real-time site updates
- Password-less login via cryptographic keys
- Built-in SQL database for dynamic content
Anonymity
ZeroNet itself does not provide anonymity. By default, your IP address is visible to other peers. For anonymous usage:
- Enable built-in Tor support
- Use ZeroNet over I2P
- Connect through a VPN
Privacy Note: Always enable Tor mode in ZeroNet settings if anonymity is required. Without it, other peers can see your IP address.