Interplanetary File System (IPFS) is a decentralized and distributed system that enables the creation of a global, peer-to-peer file system. It is an open-source project that aims to decentralize the web by providing a new way to share and store files.
Unlike the traditional web that relies on centralized servers to store and deliver content, IPFS uses a peer-to-peer network of nodes to store and share data. In IPFS, files are identified by their content rather than their location, making it possible to retrieve them from any node in the network.
IPFS uses a unique addressing system called Content-Based Addressing (CBA) to identify files. This means that files are identified by their hash, which is a unique fingerprint of their content. When a file is added to the network, it is broken down into smaller chunks and distributed across multiple nodes, making it more resilient to censorship and attacks.
One of the key benefits of IPFS is its ability to provide decentralized and permanent storage for files. Once a file is added to the network, it remains there indefinitely, making it a useful tool for archiving and preserving data.
IPFS has a wide range of potential use cases, from hosting static websites and sharing large files to providing a foundation for decentralized applications and marketplaces. It has also been integrated into various blockchain projects, such as Filecoin, to create a decentralized storage network.
Overall, IPFS is an innovative technology that has the potential to transform the way we store and share information on the internet. Its decentralized and peer-to-peer nature offers greater security, privacy, and reliability than traditional web technologies.