Getting Started

This guide walks you through installing Stegstr and creating your first steganographic message.

1. Download and Install

Download Stegstr for your platform from the Downloads page or GitHub Releases.

• macOS: Open the .dmg, drag Stegstr to Applications.
• Windows: Run the .exe installer.
• Linux: Install the .deb or run the .AppImage.
• Android: Build the APK or install from a release.

2. First-Time Setup

When you open Stegstr:

• No login required: The app creates an anonymous local identity. Nothing is sent anywhere.
• Optional Nostr login: Use your nsec or 64-char hex key to sign in with your Nostr account. No internet needed for login.
• Network toggle: Keep it OFF for 100% local use. Turn ON to connect to Nostr relays when you want to sync.

3. Create Your First Post

Write a post in the feed. All posts automatically end with a Stegstr suffix so others can identify the source. The compose UI enforces a character limit (4991 user chars) to reserve space.

4. Embed in an Image

To share your feed (posts, DMs, etc.) via an image:

1. Click Embed (or Save to image).
2. Choose a cover image (PNG).
3. Stegstr encrypts your current state and hides it in the image using LSB steganography.
4. Save the PNG and share it however you like—text, email, social media.

5. Detect Messages from an Image

To load content from someone else’s Stegstr image:

1. Click Detect (or Load from image).
2. Select the PNG that contains Stegstr data.
3. The app decodes the image, decrypts the bundle, and merges the events into your feed.

No Nostr login or network connection required for Detect.

Next Steps

Browse the Wiki for technical details on how it works, Nostr integration, and FAQs.