Skip to main content

Nostr User Guide

Everything you need to start using Nostr. From creating keys to finding your community.

What is Nostr?​

Nostr is a simple, open protocol for decentralized social networking:

  • No central server — Messages spread across relays
  • Your keys, your identity — Cryptographic ownership
  • Censorship-resistant — No one can ban you
  • Interoperable — Many clients, same network

Getting Started​

1. Get a Client​

Popular Nostr clients:

PlatformClientLink
iOSDamusdamus.io
AndroidAmethystPlay Store
WebSnortsnort.social
WebPrimalprimal.net

2. Create Your Keys​

When you sign up, you'll get:

  • npub — Your public key (share this!)
  • nsec — Your private key (keep secret!)
warning

Your nsec is your identity. If you lose it, you lose your account. If someone steals it, they become you. Back it up securely!

3. Set Up Your Profile​

Add your:

  • Display name
  • Bio
  • Profile picture
  • Banner image

4. Find People​

  • Search by npub or NIP-05 (alice@example.com)
  • Browse trending hashtags
  • Check who people you know follow

5. Start Posting​

Just write! Your posts go to relays and anyone following you will see them.

Key Concepts​

Relays​

Relays store and forward messages. Your client connects to multiple relays for redundancy.

Zaps ⚡​

Send Bitcoin micropayments to posts you like via Lightning Network.

NIP-05 Verification​

A domain-based identity like alice@example.com that maps to your npub.

See Also​