# FAQ - Transient.chat
Frequently asked questions about using Transient.chat

# Frequently Asked Questions

## How long do messages last?

All chat messages automatically disappear after 1 hour.

## How long do rooms last?

All chat rooms automatically disappear after all users leave the room.

## Do I need an account to use this?

No. Just pick a handle and start chatting. If you don't come back in 3 days your handle is released.

## Is anything stored permanently?

No databases or disk files are used for chat messages or media—everything exists temporarily in memory and vanishes within an hour. We persist only basic session configuration, ban records, and room owner mappings using a lightweight local database so they survive server updates.

## Is my chat secure / private?

Yes! We support Zero-Knowledge End-to-End Encryption (E2EE). You can enable encryption for any room by clicking + Add Passphrase in the sidebar and entering a passphrase. Encryption keys are derived locally in your browser using PBKDF2 and AES-GCM. The passphrases reside strictly in your browser's session memory and are never sent to the server. Anyone without the correct passphrase will only see a placeholder indicating the message is encrypted, with a quick link to add the passphrase to their keyring if they know it.

## What is a Watchroom?

A Watchroom lets you sync YouTube playback with others while chatting. Everyone sees the same video at the same time.

## Can I send voice messages?

Yes. You can record short voice clips (up to 15 seconds) by holding the microphone button. Enable Autoplay in the sidebar to hear messages automatically as they arrive.

## What is External Content?

External images and videos linked by other users. You can toggle External Content on to automatically show embedded media.

## Can users be removed?

Yes. Room owners can kick users. Admins can ban users by IP.

## Where can I find the source code?

https://forgejo.benjimanmiller.com/ben/transient.chat

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