Protocol V2 is the version Hivenet uses for supported apps and services going forward. For most users, the practical question is simple: is your account already on Protocol V2, or is it still on the previous version? That affects which apps your account can use and what you need to do before converting.
What Protocol V2 changes
Protocol V2 changes how accounts work, how devices connect to Hivenet, and which apps and services are compatible with your account.
Mobile, desktop, and web are not changing in the same way. The existing iOS and Android apps are adding Protocol V2 support. The new desktop apps use Protocol V2 from day one. Store in the web app also requires a Protocol V2 account.
Who this affects
If you create a new account in an app or service that already uses Protocol V2, your account starts on Protocol V2.
If you already have a Hivenet account on the previous version, you may see an option to convert that account in the web app. Until you do, some newer Hivenet surfaces will not work with that account.
If your account is still on the previous version
A previous-version account cannot use Store in the web app or sign in to the new desktop apps. If you open Store in the web app, Hivenet may show you options for what to do next.
If you choose to convert your current account, you keep the same account, email address, password, and plan. The account itself moves to Protocol V2, and you may need to sign in again on your devices afterward.
If you want to keep files from the previous version, download them before you convert. In the current self-serve conversion flow, data from the previous version does not move into Protocol V2 and will not be available after conversion. For users on the previous version, the supported way to download files before conversion is the mobile app.
When you open Store in the web app, you may see two options: convert your current account to Protocol V2, or create a separate Protocol V2 account with a different email address. Converting changes your current account. Creating a separate account leaves your current account unchanged.
Do you need to do anything now?
If your account is already using Protocol V2, probably not.
If your account is still on the previous version, only continue when you understand what will change, have downloaded any files you want to keep, and have signed out of Hivenet on your other devices and apps.
If you are not sure which option is right for you, contact Hivenet Support before you continue.