# Using text-based chat with the Matrix protocol Anyone can access chatrooms at domain example.org. You can create a personal [[account]] to access the chat service directly. You can access the service indirectly via another Matrix chat service. ## Special strings NB! This documentation uses special strings which you may want to adapt for your local setup: domain: example.org matrixhost: matrix.example.org ## Clients Matrix chat is accessed with any of several [Matrix clients]. Recommended is to use one of the [Element] client either as web service, Android app, or iOS app. You can use several clients at once. [Matrix clients]: "Introduction to common Matrix clients" [Element]: "Element (formerly Riot and Vector) - free and open-source software instant messaging client implementing the Matrix protocol" ## Setup Members can create an account locally at the domain example.org. Guests may connect indirectly from another Matrix network. To create a local member account, tell your Matrix client to use the chatserver matrix.example.org (some Matrix clients call it "Custom server" or "Home server"). Then request to create a new account, providing your email address as proof of membership (but do **not** provide a phone number). Guests (and members too) can connect from outside - i.e. using an account created at some other Matrix network - and from there join our [Reception] room. [Reception]: "Reception - our room to chat with visitors" ## Rooms All rooms are listed in a public room list. You can join rooms each with different topics. You can address everyone in a room by tagging your message with "@room". You can mention a room in chat by writing its name starting with a "#". ## Communities Matrix communities is a way to help limit view on rooms. In Matrix clients supporting it, You join a community either from a link in the topic of corresponding general room, or via a listing of all communities. You can mention a community in chat by writing its name starting with "+".