XMPP Refresher: The Open Instant Messaging Protocol Then & Now

The Extensible Messaging and Presence Protocol (XMPP) is an open standard that has remained vital in the world of instant messaging since the late 1990s, enabling near-real-time chat by using XML data exchanges over networks. Despite the evolution of the internet and technological advancements, XMPP's core functions—such as sending messages, managing user presence, and handling contact lists—remain unchanged, with persistent connections over TCP and asynchronous push messaging. Standardized by the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF), XMPP's extensibility allows for continuous improvement and adaptation to new use cases, including team chats, VoIP, and IoT communication. Its decentralized nature allows anyone to operate their own server, enhancing its reliability and flexibility. With a strong community backing and support for numerous programming languages, XMPP has proven to be stable and secure, and while newer technologies like ReST and JSON are considered alternatives, the protocol’s widespread adoption ensures its continued relevance. The XMPP Standards Foundation is actively working on developing extensions for end-to-end encryption and adaptations for machine communication, ensuring its applicability in modern and future communication technologies.