It’s built upon XML (Extensible Markup Language) and offers functionality beyond typical Instant Messaging. XMPP’s architecture is similar to that of email. Popularized in 2003, the Standard has been extended in terms of features over the years and is responsible for applications such as Whatsapp.
Features
Security and Encryption
XMPP uses technologies and cryptography mechanisms such as Off-the-record Messaging (OTR) to ensure the highest levels of security.
Multi-User chat
XMPP uses Multi-User Chat (MUC) to support instances of multiple users.
Peer-to-peer Sessions
Machine-to-machine messaging (peer-to-peer) is made possible by the use of an extension referred to as Jingle.
Service Discovery
XMPP provides local or distant discovery services, despite there being other protocols such as Service Location Protocol.
How It Works
The working mechanism of XMPP is based on the following components:
Stable TCP Connections
TCP connections are persistent, hence is no need to create connections each time messages are sent. However, some new XMPP connections can use Web sockets with or TLS encryption.
Client-Server Architecture
XMPP communicates by transmitting small, structured data packets between clients through intermediary servers. Each user has a unique identifier, usually similar to an email used for route identification and routing purposes.
Decentralized Hosting
With XMPP, anyone can maintain and run their own servers since it’s centralized. Its operation mechanism is similar to that of email; meaning clients don’t share data directly, but through servers as intermediaries.
Benefits For Using XMPP
- It is stable and reliable.
- Multi-language support including Java#, C++, Ruby, Pearl, and many others.
- It is open-source and provides users with the flexibility to build any client based on their requirements.
- Offers trustworthy delivery.