Unveiling Wander: A StumbleUpon-Inspired Tool for Discovering the Hidden ‘Small Web’

As AI-crafted summaries and branded content dominate online searches, people are increasingly seeking ways to reinstate a personal element to the internet. This trend has given rise to innovations such as “small web” search engines and decentralized social networks.

One notable development in this space is Wander Console, an open-source, self-hosted web console that empowers users to uncover fascinating sites and webpages curated by a community of indie creators.

The initiative was founded by Susam Pal, a developer based in London, who was inspired to create this decentralized tool after discovering Kagi’s “small web” search engine, which narrows searches to certain content types like blogs, webcomics, and YouTube channels.

However, this method often misses niche websites run by indie creators like Pal, as well as smaller projects, mini apps, and games. This insight led him to develop Wander, enabling users to curate web recommendations.

“Not everyone is aware of this delightful corner of the internet filled with unique sites where individuals express their individuality,” he remarked.

Wander takes cues from earlier concepts like webrings that connected independent sites and blogs, along with discovery platforms like StumbleUpon, which provided random site suggestions at the click of the “Stumble!” button. It also features elements akin to blogrolls, allowing site owners to recommend other websites.

To set up Wander, simply upload two files to your website: an index.html linking to the Wander console, and a wander.js (a straightforward JavaScript file) to connect to other suggested Wander consoles. There is no need for server-side code or a database, and the console can be hosted even on GitHub Pages or Codeberg Pages, according to Pal.

Once uploaded, you can add a “Wander” link on your website, inviting visitors to embark on an exploration venture. (For instance, you can check out Pal’s demo of the Wander Console.)

The console features a “Wander” button that directs users to a random site, while the “Console” button offers insights regarding that user’s Wander setup, including suggestions for other endorsed Wander consoles known as “Neighbors.”

Many of these Wander consoles showcase creativity and humor. For instance, a console created by a user named Josh curates websites from others sharing the same name. Another console whimsically transforms the cursor into a quirky creature, and yet another navigates users through various pages on Neocities, a platform aimed at reviving creative expression on the web, reminiscent of Geocities. Numerous consoles have also tailored their color schemes to match their original sites or evoke nostalgia.

Pal emphasized that adapting the console with CSS or JavaScript is simple and does not interfere with the core functionality of Wander Console. This allows for seamless updates to newer versions, necessitating only minor modifications when Wander issues updates.

Pal first introduced the project to the Hacker News community earlier this spring and subsequently shared it on Reddit and other platforms, receiving enthusiastic feedback and support. Since then, more than 60 users have embraced Wander, collectively recommending over 1,500 websites.

“Not everyone feels inclined to explore the small web—some view the internet purely as a utility, which is absolutely fine. However, those with a creative flair may want to delve into the small web,” Pal noted.

He also pointed out that many users seem to have a longing for StumbleUpon, often reminiscing about it fondly. “It’s about the element of surprise—clicking the button could lead to delightful discoveries,” he concluded.