Mozilla will switch from IRC to Matrix and add a second DNS-over-HTTPS provider in Firefox

Mozilla has decided to switch to use a decentralized service for developer communication, built on an open platform Matrix. The Matrix server will be launched using the hosting service Modular.im.

Matrix is considered optimal for Mozilla developers' communication, as it is an open project, not tied to centralized servers and proprietary developments, it uses open standards, ensures end-to-end encryption, supports search and unlimited viewing of chat history, can be used for file transfers, notifications, assessing developers' online presence, organizing teleconferences, and making voice and video calls.

Previously for communication in Mozilla IRC was used which was seen as a serious barrier for newcomers to join discussions. Additionally, the moral and technical obsolescence of the IRC protocol has been noted, which is not as convenient as desired in modern realities, is often blocked by firewalls, and does not provide sufficient tools for spam protection and norms of communication enforcement.

Among related events with Mozilla, it is also worth mentioning the addition of an alternative provider for DNS over HTTPS (DoH) in Firefox. In addition to the previously proposed default DNS server from CloudFlare ("https://1.1.1.1/dns-query"), the settings will also include a service NextDNS, which also develops the same proxy for DoH. Activate DoH and select a provider in the network connection settings.

For selecting DoH providers are created requirements for trustworthy DNS resolvers, according to which a DNS operator can use the data obtained for resolving only to ensure the operation of the service, must not store logs longer than 24 hours, cannot share data with third parties, and is required to disclose information about data processing methods. The service must also commit not to censor, filter, interfere or block DNS traffic, except in situations prescribed by law.

Interestingly, one (104.16.248.249) of the two IP addresses associated with the proposed DoH server mozilla.cloudflare-dns.com in Firefox, included downward API support (simultaneously with this in the lists locks of Roskomnadzor by court order from Stavropol dated 10.06.2013.

Source: opennet.ru