How was the online FOSDEM conference organized completely for free for over 30,000 people?

FOSDEM 2021 took place in a unique manner - entirely online, and the organizers utilized the Matrix platform to host the event. Matrix is an open communication protocol that is gaining popularity among tech communities. The article details the challenges faced in organizing such a large-scale event in a virtual space. Preparing for FOSDEM required extensive work from the organizing team to ensure smooth communication and accessibility for all participants. Thanks to Matrix, attendees were not only able to listen to talks but also engage in discussions in real-time. Various groups emerged to discuss topics related to lectures, fostering the exchange of ideas and experiences. In conclusion, FOSDEM 2021 exemplifies how modern technologies can be employed to organize significant events during pandemic times.