Embracing the Fediverse

A significant benefit of a decentralized platform like Mastodon is its resilience against shutdowns. Unlike traditional services, there are numerous independent instances, meaning if one goes dark, users can seamlessly migrate to another without major disruptions to their experience.

When I initially joined Mastodon, selecting the right instance proved to be a daunting challenge. I believed this choice carried more weight than it perhaps did. My search began with secular instances, but I found nothing suitable. Eventually, I expanded my criteria, looking for something that resonated more with humanist values, but to no avail.

I ultimately chose mastodon.lol as my new digital home, primarily due to its pro-LGBTQ+ stance, which aligned with my values. Though I identify as straight and cisgender, I often feel a stronger connection with those who don’t fit traditional molds.

My decision felt right at first; I connected with wonderful individuals I might not have met elsewhere. However, I overlooked some critical warning signs along the way. The administrator seemed overwhelmed by the influx of users migrating from Twitter, displaying an unpredictable temperament. His tendency to sever ties with instances he disapproved of raised concerns.

Although I contemplated moving to a different instance several times, I struggled to find a better fit. The ideal instance I envisioned simply didn’t exist, so I remained where I was.

Rage Quitting and the Subsequent Scramble

Recently, the administrator of mastodon.lol announced his decision to shut down the instance, providing a three-month timeline for users to relocate. However, the tone of the announcement felt more like a rage quit, leading many to doubt that we would truly have the full three months. Seasoned users urged us to act quickly, prompting a frantic search for alternatives.

As the deadline loomed, I still hadn’t found my ideal instance. I recalled that Medium had launched an instance, but information on how to join was scarce. It was absent from the usual directories, and Medium’s help section offered no guidance.

Against my better judgment, I decided to join mastodon.social, one of the larger general instances. Most advice I had encountered warned against larger platforms, yet I felt this instance might have a better chance of remaining operational. For now, it would suffice.

The Migration Experience

Transitioning from one instance to another is a mixed experience. I followed a guide to export my followers and connections from the old instance and import them into the new one. While I accepted that my posts wouldn’t transfer, I was unprepared for the loss of my settings—bio, avatar, and background. Most frustratingly, I found there was no way to transfer my filters, which totaled over 100, now reduced to zero. Rebuilding them is a daunting prospect.

I maintain that the federated nature of Mastodon is advantageous. While moving between instances isn't overly difficult, there’s plenty of room for improvement. Users should have the ability to export and import their filters, as this could significantly streamline the process.

Lessons Learned

Reflecting on my experience, I realize I ignored the warning signs of instability in my previous instance's administration. This was not mere hindsight; I had sensed the impending issues long before the announcement. I knew I needed to transition and spent considerable time seeking a new home.

I also recognized that my pickiness was a barrier. I should have focused less on geographical preference and specific topics, and more on the stability and longevity of an instance.

On the positive side, I learned the migration process, a necessary skill for many who seek out new communities. This flexibility is one of the key benefits of the federated system.

Exploring Your Next Steps on Mastodon

The first video offers a guide on how to migrate to a new Mastodon server with ease, providing valuable tips for a smooth transition.

In the second video, viewers will learn how to migrate their Mastodon account to another server without losing followers, ensuring a seamless experience.