When using the [Matrix](../) protocol, consider the following list to sign up at
a [homeserver](https://matrix.org/docs/matrix-concepts/elements-of-matrix/#homeserver)
other than matrix.org to foster decentralization and make use of [federation](https://spec.matrix.org/latest/server-server-api/).
Depending on your requirements, you'd might want to choose a provider bridging to other services or featuring [bots](https://matrix.org/docs/matrix-concepts/elements-of-matrix/#appservice-bridges-and-some-bots).
## Recommended homeservers
Provider | Homeserver URL | Status page | Special features (selection)
[envs.net](https://envs.net/chat/matrix) | `matrix.envs.net` | https://the-federation.info/node/envs.de | Bots: Poll, Reminder, XKCD and much more
[Freifunk Südholstein](https://freitrix.de/) | `freitrix.de` | https://the-federation.info/node/freitrix.de | Run by a german Freifunk[^1] community
[Nitrokey](https://www.nitrokey.com/products/nitrochat) | `nitro.chat` | https://the-federation.info/node/nitro.chat | Run by IT security professionals[^2]
[sp-codes](https://sp-codes.de/en/services/matrix) | `matrix.sp-codes.de` | https://the-federation.info/node/matrix.sp-codes.de | Run by a security and privacy enthusiast[^3] providing a [german guide](https://sp-codes.de/de/services/matrix/setup/part-1)