FAIR Knowledge Base
Frequently Asked Questions
We maintain a comprehensive list of frequently asked questions in the TSC repository: FAQs on GitHub.
Have an idea or suggestion? Share it in our Ideas forum.
Glossary
Aggregator
Any server which aggregates or collects package data. This can be done from Repositories and/or other Aggregators.
API Replacement
For specific features, FAIR provides replacement implementations of currently centralized vendor-specific services.
AT Protocol
A standard for social networking originally developed by Bluesky. FAIR uses the AT Protocol for decentralized package distribution. Learn more on Wikipedia.
DID (Decentralized Identifier)
A Decentralized Identifier as defined by the W3C DID specification. DIDs provide a way to identify entities without relying on a central authority. Learn more on Wikipedia.
FAIR
Federated And Independent Repositories.
FAIR Core
The core protocol specification for the FAIR system. See the FAIR Core specification on GitHub.
FAIR Distro
A full WordPress distribution with FAIR preinstalled, ready to use out of the box. Download the latest version from FAIR Distro releases.
FAIR Package Manager Project
The overarching project encompassing all FAIR initiatives, tools, and specifications aimed at creating a federated and decentralized software distribution ecosystem.
FAIR Plugin
A WordPress plugin that configures your site to use the FAIR network. No configuration required — simply install and activate. Download from FAIR Plugin releases. See also our manual install guide.
FAIR Protocol
The system and specification for distributing installable software packages across a federated network. Read the FAIR Protocol specification.
The FAIR Web Foundation
A Linux Foundation directed fund that provides governance, funding, and organizational support for the FAIR project.
Mini-FAIR Repo
A WordPress plugin that turns your site into a FAIR Repository, allowing you to host and distribute packages directly. Available on GitHub.
Node
Anything connected to the FAIR network, including repositories, aggregators, and end-user sites.
Package
A piece of installable software distributed through the FAIR network, such as a plugin, theme, or extension.
Package Binary
The distributable asset of a package, such as a zip file, that can be downloaded and installed.
Planet
FAIR's community news and event feed, powered by Venus. Planet aggregates blog posts and updates from across the FAIR community.
Repository
A server that hosts packages and DIDs, making them available for discovery and installation by nodes in the FAIR network.
TSC (Technical Steering Committee)
The Technical Steering Committee is the governing body responsible for the technical direction of the FAIR project. The TSC oversees working groups, approves specifications, and ensures the project stays aligned with its mission.