How to Install Diaspora* on Windows 10

Diaspora* is a free and decentralized social networking platform that allows you to control your data and communicate with people across different pods. This tutorial will guide you through the process of installing Diaspora* on your Windows 10 computer.

Prerequisites

Before you begin, ensure that you have the following:

• A Windows 10 computer.
• A web browser such as Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox.
• A reliable internet connection.

Install RailsInstaller

Diaspora* is built on Ruby on Rails, so you will need to install RailsInstaller in order to run it.

1. Visit the RailsInstaller website (http://railsinstaller.org/en) and download the latest version of the software.
2. Once downloaded, run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions.
3. During the installation process, make sure to check the box next to "Git for Windows" and "DevKit" to install them as well.

Install PostgreSQL

Diaspora* uses a PostgreSQL database to store its data. You will need to install PostgreSQL in order to run Diaspora*.

1. Visit the PostgreSQL website (https://www.postgresql.org/download/windows/) and download the latest version of the software.
2. Once downloaded, run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions.
3. During the installation process, make sure to choose a password for the "postgres" user account.

Clone the Diaspora* Repository

1. Open a command prompt by pressing the Windows key and typing "cmd" in the search bar, then select "Command Prompt" from the results.
2. Navigate to the directory where you want to install Diaspora* by typing cd path/to/your/directory, for example cd C:\Users\YourUsername\Desktop.
3. Clone the Diaspora* repository by typing git clone https://github.com/diaspora/diaspora.git.
4. Once the repository is cloned, navigate to the Diaspora* directory by typing cd diaspora.

Install Dependencies

1. In the command prompt, type gem install bundler to install Bundler.
2. Once Bundler is installed, type bundle install to install all the necessary gems.

Set Up the Database

1. In the command prompt, type rake db:create db:migrate to create and migrate the database.
2. If you encounter any issues during this step, check that PostgreSQL is running and that you have entered the correct password for the "postgres" user account.

Start the Server

1. In the command prompt, type rails s to start the Rails server.
2. Once the server is started, open a web browser and go to http://localhost:3000 to access Diaspora*.

And that's it! You have successfully installed and set up Diaspora* on your Windows 10 computer. You can now create an account and begin using the platform.

If you want to self-host in an easy, hands free way, need an external IP address, or simply want your data in your own hands, give IPv6.rs a try!

Alternatively, for the best virtual desktop, try Shells!