The Future of I2P is Dependency Free

Accessing the I2P router has never been easier

Anyone who has ever downloaded the I2P core Java software for Windows or macOS probably asked the same question: when is this going to be over?

At upwards of 30 steps, that included downloading Java, and then going through IzPack, and then the software set up process, it was not a download and install process that could be done quickly.

The need to leave the I2P download process to find Java and download it (not a familiar workflow for many people), caused some people to comment about being confused about making the right choice of Java, feeling uncertain about the safety of downloading so much, and also the system resources required. From a privacy perspective, feedback indicated that people felt wary and confused.

Adoption of I2P had potentially lagged due to the reaction caused by the download and install workflow. However with no immediate solutions for packaging with Java, what could be done?

From JVM to JPackage

Monero created the first dependency — free I2P package, called I2P-Zero for their cryptocurrency use case. This was an exciting development because it revealed a much more simple and intuitive interaction for accessing the I2P router. Not only was it possible, it became obvious how successful it was based on community feedback. Thankfully a new tool called jpackage became available.

Moving to jpackage has meant being able to include the dependencies that have weighed down the download and install process for I2P. It also is able to produce native packages for Windows and macOS that now allow for familiar install workflows.

Dozens of steps from the installation process have been discarded in the process of switching from the external JVM to jpackage. The project is proud to be able to finally make using I2P more accessible!

It is now possible to install all I2P components using a single package (No Java Required). The Windows bundle can also be used to configure a Firefox Profile.

I2P for macOS is packaged using the standard “.dmg” package type, which allows it to use Apple’s built-in tools to securely, reliably, and easily install the package. It does not require Java to be installed to use.

Accessing digital freedom and anonymity just became easier. Try the new I2P installers here: https://geti2p.net/en/download .

If you can support I2P localization efforts, please consider helping translate I2P documentation and software into your language. Join the amazing team of people at Transifex https://www.transifex.com/otf/I2P/ .

Help keep making I2P more accessible by participating in the I2P Usability Lab! The lab is creating and updating onramps for I2P network participants, application developers, core protocol support, infrastructure resilience , research and design.