[dist1ll]

Matrix is separate from the crypto sphere, because it solves a different problem.

Federated platforms appeal to the privacy-oriented "f** big tech" mindset, which is pretty common in the hacker & FOSS crowds. I'd put it in the same category as VPNs, E2E messengers and TOR.

[olivierduval]

VPN are really usefull for business to link different locations with internet instead of using (awfully costly) dedicated link... or to allow remote work

So VPN are not really in the same category

[mikepurvis]

VPN as a technology, yes. But I think "VPN" in this discussion is referring specifically to the myriad of consumer-oriented paid solutions (SurfShark, NordVPN, whatever) that are pitched as being about protecting your online security, pirating with impunity, and bypassing region-locks.