Bigfoot glossary
The words you’ll meet in Bigfoot, explained in one place.
Backup
A file containing an exported identity. It can restore access after an installation is lost or damaged. A protected backup still requires the passphrase used to encrypt it.
BFT
Bigfoot’s network currency. It is earned through qualifying contributions and used for certain network actions, tips and transfers. Read BFT help for more.
Fact check
An intelligence contribution that examines a claim using supporting evidence. It may be assessed through Bigfoot’s review process; its publication does not guarantee that its conclusions are correct.
Identity
A network identity backed by a private key that authorizes its actions and controls its BFT. Its chosen name need not identify a person by their legal name. Read Identity help for more.
In use
The one identity your posting and earning currently follow. Viewing any other identity is free and changes nothing; Use this identity performs the switch.
Locked
A passphrase-protected identity that has not been opened this session. Its public facts still show; acting as it waits for the unlock.
Node
A computer running Bigfoot node software to perform network work, such as storing, serving or checking public records. Its eligibility for work depends on the protocol’s requirements.
Passphrase
A secret used to encrypt and unlock a saved private key or backup. A backup protected by a forgotten passphrase does not bypass that passphrase.
Post
A public message published in relation to a webpage, in a Space or in a conversation, signed through its author’s identity.
Private key
Secret information that authorizes actions through an identity. Someone who obtains it may be able to act through the identity, so keep it private and protect its backups.
Protocol
The shared rules and message formats that Bigfoot software follows to communicate and participate in the network.
Record
Information submitted in the network’s published format, such as a post, reply or intelligence contribution. Published records are public and may be copied by other participants.
Review note
A reviewer’s published assessment of an intelligence contribution, including the reasoning behind the assessment.
Space
A public area within Bigfoot where participants can publish original posts and replies without referring or linking to a webpage.
Thumbprint
An identity’s public fingerprint, derived from its key. It identifies the identity on the network without exposing the private key.
Wallet
The balance and transaction history associated with an identity. These are public network information; spending requires authorization through the identity.
Looking for something else?
Read the general FAQ for an introduction to Bigfoot, or contact us with your question.