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What is a Reseed? Why do I need one?

A reseed server is a special service that helps new users of the I2P network connect to the network. Normally, a reseed node consists of an I2P router which is well-integrated with peers and which is accessible from the non-anonymous internet. When an I2P router requests an "i2pseeds.su3" file from a reseed service, the reseed gives them a signed zip file containing between 50 and 200 "RouterInfos" which are used as potential initial peers in the I2P network. Once you connect to one peer described by a RouterInfo in the reseed file, the rest of your connections begin to happen within I2P.

What is critical about the reseed service is that it provides the "i2pseeds.su3" to the user who is trying to join I2P. Given that I2P reseed nodes may come under attack or be blocked, a number of backup methods are available. Any Java I2P user can generate an unsigned reseed bundle, called "i2pseeds.zip" which they can share with their friends on a flash drive.

Who can run a Reseed service?

A reseed server is an important service to the I2P network, so it does require a maintainer who is capable of responding to issues quickly if they are raised by the reseed maintainer. It is probably not a good idea to run a regular reseed service on a home internet connection. Besides that, you need a TLS certificate and a valid contact e-mail where you can be reached.

How do I get started?

First, set up an I2P Router on a server you own. Then, head over to the guides page, and choose the guide appropriate for your server software.