src/_posts/2020-04-23-dat-py.md

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+---
+layout: post
+title: Datpy, the punk-to-punk protocol in Python
+description: A new Python implementation of the Dat protocol is cooking at Autonomic
+image: 2020-04-23-dat-protocol.png
+category: technology, peer-to-peer, dat-protocol
+date: 2020-04-23
+---
+
+# Datpy, the punk-to-punk protocol in Python
+
+We're quite excited by thew new wave of community developed peer-to-peer
+technology. [Scuttlebutt], [Cabal], [Mapeo] and [Beaker browser] are inspiring
+examples of software which show that technology can be built to operate without
+running on centralised commercially owned infrastructure (e.g. WhatsApp).
+
+One of the underlying innovations for technologies such as [Cabal] is the [Dat
+protocol], which is a way of describing how two computers can send information
+to each other directly. The protocol is supported by the [Dat Foundation] and
+developed as a community based standard.
+
+Today, the reference implementation for the Dat protocol is written in
+Javascript. The Javascript ecosystem has proved to be remarkably flexible for
+advancing this next generation of tools. Simple methods of publishing (npm
+publish), well established distribution channels (the browser) and a
+[philosophy of modularity] have enabled so many to get started with building
+peer-to-peer technology.
+
+However, there is a great need for other languages and ecosystems to benefit
+from the tools and concepts that are being developed based on the reference
+implementation. People from all walks of life need a working implementation in
+their preferred language of choice. In response to this, we are seeing projects
+like [Dat Rust] and [C++ Dat] emerge.
+
+Alongside these efforts, a member of Autonomic has begun to work on [Datpy], a
+Python based implementation of the Dat protocol. The project proposes a roadmap
+but offers no deadlines and receives no funding at current status. However
+slowly, things are moving along. Further progress updates will be posted on
+this blog as they come in.
+
+You can find out more information on
+[datpy.decentral1.se](https://datpy.decentral1.se/) and please feel more than
+welcome to join in and participate on the project if you have time and energy
+for it.
+
+[scuttlebutt]: https://scuttlebutt.nz/
+[cabal]: https://cabal.chat/
+[mapeo]: https://www.digital-democracy.org/mapeo/
+[beaker browser]: https://beakerbrowser.com/
+[dat protocol]: https://dat.foundation/
+[dat foundation]: https://dat.foundation/about/foundation/
+[philosophy of modularity]: https://mafinto.sh/blog/pragmatic-modularity.html
+[dat rust]: https://github.com/datrs/
+[c++ dat]: https://datcxx.github.io/
+[datpy]: https://datpy.decentral1.se/