LynxChan

Overview of LynxChan

LynxChan is a powerful, open-source imageboard engine designed for building anonymous discussion platforms similar to 4chan or 8kun. Built with Node.js and MongoDB, it prioritizes efficiency, accessibility, and modularity, making it an ideal solution for communities seeking a lightweight yet fully-featured chan software. The engine supports users without JavaScript, provides all data in JSON format, and handles high traffic with minimal hardware requirements – perfect for resource-conscious administrators.

This tool serves developers and community moderators creating custom imageboard platforms with flexible front-end templates. Its modular architecture allows complete separation between back-end functionality and front-end presentation, enabling customization through third-party templates like PenumbraLynx. It's relevant for Community Platform software, Forum Client tools, and Local Web Server applications.

How to Use LynxChan

Getting started involves installing dependencies (Node.js 22.x, MongoDB 6.0.x, ImageMagick, etc.), then choosing automatic or manual setup. The recommended automatic install script in the 'aux' directory guides front-end installation and configuration. For production, run root-setup.sh to create a system service. Start the engine via the lynxchan command, service, or src/be/boot.js, then configure front-end templates.

Core Features of LynxChan

1. JavaScript-Free Support – Fully functional for users with JavaScript disabled, ensuring maximum accessibility.
2. Modular Front-End Architecture – Separate front-end and back-end projects allow complete template customization and third-party designs.
3. JSON API Accessibility – All platform data available in JSON format for developers and integration.
4. Hardware Efficiency – Optimized to support many users with minimal server resources and power consumption.
5. Comprehensive Media Handling – Built-in support for images, videos, and files with thumbnail generation and EXIF stripping.

Use Cases for LynxChan

• Creating custom anonymous discussion boards for niche communities or interest groups
• Building lightweight imageboard platforms with specific moderation requirements
• Developing educational or research platforms for studying online community dynamics
• Setting up private discussion boards for organizations or friend groups
• Experimenting with alternative forum software architectures and designs
• Creating platforms with specific accessibility requirements (JavaScript-free browsing)
• Building communities that prioritize data portability through JSON APIs

Support and Contact

For support, discussions, or feature suggestions, contact via email at sergio.a.vianna@gmail.com. Join the development community on the #lynxchan channel at Rizon IRC network. Documentation is in the 'doc' directory, with resources via the GitHub repository and front-end projects.

Company Info

LynxChan is an open-source project developed independently by Sergio Vianna. As community-driven software, it operates without formal corporate structure, relying on contributor collaboration. It uses the MIT license, allowing free use, modification, and distribution.

Login and Signup

LynxChan doesn't require traditional user accounts for posting, maintaining anonymity. Administrative access is configured via terminal commands. To access or set up, visit the official repository for downloads and instructions.