Twitter refugee here. Can someone explain what relays are and why I've got 19 of them? (Using the Amethyst android app if it makes any difference)
Discussion
Welcome 👋
A relay is like a server where you can read write notes (posts).
The reason for multiple relays is to keep the system decentralized.
If one relay ever goes down or no longer allows you to read and/or write notes, you can still use all the other relays in your list.
Relays are servers. Unlike Twitter and Facebook, that have huge centralized servers, nostr has a lot of medium sized servers, mostly run by private individuals.
That’s why people tupically subscribe to several: So that you get some reach, and get enough content.
One could run a small relay and have people subscribe only to that, for a more discord-y experience.
Thank you for the explanation!
No problemo!
Here’s a list of public relays. Some are paid too, for a bit less spam and more exclusivity.