Finger: Social network that never died
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The 'Finger' protocol, a 1971 networking tool, remains functional today and is still pre-installed on many Unix-based operating systems. The article explores its history as one of the earliest forms of social networking and its continued utility for simple information sharing.
Why it matters
It provides historical context for modern social networking and highlights the longevity of foundational internet protocols.
Was Top 26 on Hacker News Finger: the 1971 social network that never died linux gemini python opensource orgsocial indieweb Leer en español Share It will surprise more than a few of you to hear that the first social network dates back to 1971.
No accounts, no algorithm, no central server. Your entire profile fits in a single plain text file that you control. John Carmack (co-founder of id Software and programmer of Doom and Quake) used it as a development journal. And chances are you already have a client installed on your operating system without knowing it.
But the most incredible part is that, half a century later, it still works. And do not rule out a comeback.
Its name is Finger, and you can try it right now.
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