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Quiet

Basic Information

  • Tool Name: Quiet
  • Category: Messaging
  • URL: https://tryquiet.org/
  • Description: A secure messaging platform that operates over Tor onion services, providing end-to-end encryption and decentralized communication without relying on central servers.
  • Status: Active

Core Features and Compatibility

  • Core Features: End-to-End Encryption, Tor-Based Communication, No Central Servers, Community-Based Channels, File Sharing, Emoji Support, Document Upload, QR Code Member Addition, Desktop and Mobile Support, Channel Management, Message Export
  • Operating Systems: Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS (TestFlight Beta)
  • Offline Functionality: ❌
  • Mobile Support: ⚠️
  • Languages Supported: English
  • Technical Level: Beginner

Security and Privacy

  • Security Features: End-to-End Encryption, Tor Onion Services Integration, No Metadata Collection, No Email/Phone Required, No Central Servers, Anonymous Usage, Local Data Storage
  • Data Collection Level: Minimal
  • Security and Privacy Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⯪☆ (3.80)

Deployment and Technical Details

  • Deployment Architecture: A standalone software - Runs entirely locally (e.g., runs on computer and doesn't depend on external server)
  • License: GPL-3.0
  • Cost: Fully Free

Maintenance and Support

  • Maintenance Status: Currently in beta with frequent updates and bug fixes. Development is active with new releases every few days. Project relies on donations for funding. Large number of open issues from 2023 onwards, likely due to beta status.
  • Community Support: ✅
  • Maintenance and Sustainability Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⯪☆ (3.70)

Performance and Ratings

  • Operational Functionality: ⭐⯪☆☆☆ (1.70)
  • Usability: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.00)
  • Effectiveness and Reliability: ⭐⭐☆☆☆ (2.00)
  • Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⯪☆ (3.26)

Documentation & Testing

  • Full Documentation: Quiet Documentation
  • Version Tested: 4.1.2
  • Date Tested: 2025-04-23
  • Testing Environment: HP 11th Gen Intel(R) Core(TM) i7-11800H @ 2.30GHz, Windows 64, Network: WiFi

Additional Information

  • Limitations and Vulnerabilities: Currently in beta and not recommended for security-critical activities. No third-party security audits. Some features are broken or buggy: cannot delete messages, rename channels, or consistently leave communities. Mobile support limited to TestFlight beta. Occasional lag and performance issues. File sharing functionality is inconsistent. Tor may be blocked in some regions requiring additional circumvention. Resource intensive with noticeable CPU usage.
  • Additional Notes: Particularly valuable for civil society organizations in authoritarian environments due to its decentralized nature and use of Tor onion services, which makes it harder to block or surveil. However, the beta status and lack of security audits make it unsuitable for high-risk communications at present.

Submission Information

  • Submitted By: adequatej
  • Submission Date: 2025-05-06
  • Last Updated: 2025-05-06