dat

Core pieces of the web shape how we communicate and organize. However, these pieces are increasingly controlled by large monopolies. In building Dat, we envision a future of community-driven tools backed by nonprofit organizations.

What is a web protocol?

Whether you know it or not, you probably use at least one web protocol everyday — HTTP! Similar to HTTP, the Dat Protocol uses the Internet to transfer data between computers (plus a lot more, read on!). Dat leverages existing infrastructure while making the web more user-centered.

Who runs the Dat Project?

Dat is an open source project with community governance through a set of working groups. Dat has largely been funded by donations and grants, with sponsorship by Code for Science & Society, a US nonprofit.

Why create a new protocol?

The next-generation web includes public & private places for communities, without selling data to advertisers. Designed initially for research data, Dat builds on the existing web while providing more user control. Dat allows users to share directly and establish new models for digital collaboration.