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| De-Google-ify Internet by Framasoft |
"De-Google-ify Internet" refers to the process of reducing or eliminating reliance on Google services and products in one's online activities. Google provides a wide range of services, including search, email, cloud storage, maps, and more. Some individuals and communities choose to de-Google-ify their internet usage for various reasons, such as privacy concerns, data security, or a desire to use alternatives.
Here are some common steps involved in de-Googling the internet:
- Search Engine: Replace Google Search with alternative search engines that prioritize privacy, such as DuckDuckGo or Startpage.
- Email: Move away from Gmail and switch to an email service that values privacy. ProtonMail and Tutanota are popular alternatives.
- Browsing: Use a web browser other than Google Chrome. Firefox and Brave are examples of browsers that focus on user privacy.
- Online Document Storage: If you use Google Drive, consider using alternatives like Dropbox, OneDrive, or self-hosted solutions like Nextcloud.
- Maps: Replace Google Maps with alternatives like OpenStreetMap or MapQuest.
- Video Hosting: Avoid YouTube and use alternative platforms for hosting and watching videos.
- Mobile Operating System: Consider using mobile operating systems like LineageOS (based on Android) without Google services or alternatives like /e/OS.
- Calendar: Find alternatives to Google Calendar, such as Fastmail or Apple's iCloud Calendar.
- Analytics: If you're a website owner, consider using privacy-focused analytics tools instead of Google Analytics, such as Matomo or Plausible Analytics.
- DNS: Use alternative Domain Name System (DNS) providers instead of Google's DNS. OpenDNS and Cloudflare DNS are popular choices.
The motivation behind de-Googling often stems from concerns about the amount of data Google collects, potential privacy issues, and the desire to support more privacy-conscious alternatives. Keep in mind that while de-Googling can enhance privacy, it may also require adjustments to your digital habits and the use of services that may have different features or user interfaces.