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py-libp2p/docs/introduction.rst
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Introduction
============
What is Py-libp2p?
------------------
Py-libp2p is the Python implementation of the libp2p networking stack, a modular peer-to-peer networking framework. It provides a robust foundation for building decentralized applications and protocols in Python, enabling developers to create resilient, secure, and efficient peer-to-peer networks.
The Libp2p Ecosystem
--------------------
Libp2p is a collection of networking protocols and specifications that form the foundation of many decentralized systems. Py-libp2p is part of this broader ecosystem, which includes implementations in various languages:
* `js-libp2p <https://github.com/libp2p/js-libp2p>`_ - JavaScript implementation
* `go-libp2p <https://github.com/libp2p/go-libp2p>`_ - Go implementation
* `rust-libp2p <https://github.com/libp2p/rust-libp2p>`_ - Rust implementation
While each implementation has its strengths, Py-libp2p offers unique advantages for Python developers and researchers.
Why Choose Py-libp2p?
---------------------
Py-libp2p is particularly well-suited for:
* **Protocol Research and Development**: Python's simplicity and readability make it ideal for experimenting with new protocols and network topologies.
* **Rapid Prototyping**: Quickly build and test peer-to-peer applications with Python's extensive ecosystem.
* **Educational Purposes**: The Python implementation is often more approachable for learning libp2p concepts.
* **Integration with Python Projects**: Seamlessly integrate libp2p functionality into existing Python applications.
Current Capabilities
--------------------
Py-libp2p currently supports these core libp2p features:
* **Transports**: TCP, QUIC (near completion, in final testing phase)
* **Protocols**: Gossipsub v1.1, Identify, Ping
* **Security**: Noise protocol framework
* **Connection Management**: Connection multiplexing
Features in Development
-----------------------
Several important features are currently being actively developed:
* **NAT Traversal**: AutoNAT and relay-based hole punching under development
* **WebSocket Transport**: Design and scoping discussions underway
* **Peer Discovery**:
* **mDNS**: Implementation planned for upcoming sprints
* **Bootstrap**: Modular bootstrap system planned after mDNS implementation
Use Cases
---------
Py-libp2p can be used to build various decentralized applications:
* Distributed file storage systems
* Decentralized social networks
* IoT device networks
* Blockchain and cryptocurrency networks
* Research and academic projects
* Private peer-to-peer messaging systems
Getting Started
---------------
Ready to start building with Py-libp2p? Check out our :doc:`getting_started` guide to begin your journey. For more detailed information about specific features and APIs, explore our :doc:`examples` and :doc:`API documentation <libp2p>`.
Contributing
------------
We welcome contributions from developers of all experience levels! Whether you're fixing bugs, adding features, or improving documentation, your help is valuable. See our :doc:`contributing` guide for details on how to get involved.
Further Reading
---------------
* `libp2p main site <https://libp2p.io/>`_
* `Tutorial: Introduction to libp2p <https://proto.school/introduction-to-libp2p>`_
* `libp2p Specification <https://github.com/libp2p/specs>`_
* `libp2p Documentation <https://docs.libp2p.io/>`_