Matrix and XMPP: Thoughts on Improving Messaging Protocols – Part 1

ProcessOne has been developing large-scale messaging platforms for over two decades, initially focusing on the XMPP (eXtensible Messaging and Presence Protocol). As the need for interoperability grew, they expanded their stack to include protocols like MQTT for IoT messaging, SIP for VoIP, and Matrix for decentralized communication. Matrix distinguishes itself with a distributed data model that ensures all nodes in a conversation maintain a copy of the discussion, enhancing availability. However, this comes with performance trade-offs, particularly in terms of CPU load and storage costs due to the need for data replication and merge operations. In contrast, XMPP operates on an event-based model, which avoids extensive data replication but can lead to unavailability of group chats if a server goes down. The article suggests potential improvements for both protocols, such as introducing optional features in XMPP to enhance chatroom resilience and optimizing Matrix to reduce operational costs. Future proposals for enhancing these protocols will be discussed in subsequent articles.

- ProcessOne has developed messaging platforms for over 20 years, starting with XMPP.

- Matrix offers a distributed model for conversation data, enhancing availability but increasing resource costs.

- XMPP's event-based approach avoids extensive data replication but can lead to chatroom unavailability.

- Potential improvements for XMPP and Matrix are being explored to enhance their functionalities.

- Future articles will propose optimizations for both messaging protocols.