Interplanetary File System or just short IPFS is not at all about space travel. Simply said, IPFS is a more efficient and secure way to store, share, and access files on the Internet. Though the system is underutilized, it has proven to be a superior system for better protection against users’ data privacy.
IPFS is like a super-reliable and secure way to store and share files. It’s also fast because it uses many computers all over the world to deliver the files. This makes it perfect for sharing large files like videos or music, and for storing important data, like digital art or scientific research.
IPFS is part of a larger movement to create a more decentralized and open Internet known as Web3. This current evolution of the Internet moves away from centralized servers that are mostly controlled by tech corporations.
In the process, it gives power back to users through decentralization. Where big companies control your data, Web3 uses blockchain and peer-to-peer networks to ensure users gain more control over how they manage their digital lives. You can even monetize your data and choose who gets access with it within Web3 systems.
Why Data Privacy Should Be Your Top Priority
Let’s first talk about how data privacy is still drastically eroding despite extensive data protection laws. For over two decades now, giant tech corporations like Google, Meta and Microsoft harvest users’ data to enrich themselves with only relatively tiny benefits trickling down to the users. Users’ data are now even being fed into artificial intelligence systems which threatens the jobs of workers worldwide.
Sadly, it seems like Internet users are still not paying heed to protecting their data. Every day, millions of Internet users trust their personal photos, documents, and emails to cloud storage providers like Google Drive, Dropbox, and OneDrive.
But this convenience actually comes at a cost. These companies have full access to the users’ personal files. At this very second, extensive computer systems are scanning, analyzing and maybe even sharing users’ data with third parties. Thus, for the Internet users who neglect data privacy, they are actually risking identity theft, surveillance, and misuse of personal information.
Henceforth, if you desire to enjoy a more private digital life in your latter years, it is crucial that you begin taking some data security steps now. In fact, it’s a wonder why people don’t pay much heed to data privacy since we love to use digital money that is actually a form of data.
Tech Tip: Pay heed to your data privacy.
A lot of what you do online is tracked! There is no way to completely block or avoid all Internet trackers, but you can at least use a Virtual Private Network (VPN). Use my affiliate link below to get an offer and I may get a commission if you make an online purchase at Namecheap’s website.
Work from home with a secured connection with Namecheap FastVPN.
How IPFS is Superior to Cloud Storage For Data Privacy
Data Privacy Benefits of Switching to IPFS
1. IPFS is a Decentralized Technology
With IPFS, there’s no single point of failure. Even if some nodes that store your files go offline, multiple computers worldwide that mirror your files keep them accessible.
2. IPFS Offers Better Privacy and Control
IPFS stores files by content hash, not user identity. This means no single provider holds your entire data history. You decide who can access or share your files.
3. IPFS Can Give Faster Access to Content
Users can fetch files from the nearest node because the system distributes files. This results in faster downloads, which makes it more efficient for popular files that are viewed by a high volume of users.
4. IPFS Can Be More Cost-Effective
Hosting large files on centralized servers can be expensive. IPFS relies on peer-to-peer sharing, which can reduce hosting and bandwidth costs significantly.
5. IPFS is Theoretically Resistant to Censorship
No single authority can remove your content from IPFS. Once you add your files to the network they become hard to take down which makes it a powerful tool for free speech and data preservation.
IPFS Benefits vs Hidden Risks of Centralized Cloud Storages
I’d assume you are like most Internet users who cannot be bothered to read the lengthy terms of use and privacy policies riddled with legal jargon.
But if you upload your files to centralized cloud storages, I’m quite certain there will be some fine print or clause in their legal documents that would inadvertently grant the provider unrestricted access to your files. This can creates serious risks e.g.:
- Unauthorized Data Mining:
Cloud providers analyze your emails, photos, and documents. Many users assume that companies use their data only for innocent targeted advertisements. However, can you be absolutely certain that they do not also use your data for nefarious purposes? - Data Breaches:
Hackers targeting a single provider could expose millions of user accounts. Having someone steal your data may seem harmless but you must bear in mind that your personal details are in the hands of strangers that are engaged in malicious activities. - Government Surveillance:
Centralized services must comply with local laws, which may include sharing user data with authorities without your consent. Ever wonder why your government seems to know about your activities even though you never used a certain government service?
Ultimately, by keeping your sensitive data or any personal details in centralized systems, you lose control over who can see, use, or sell your information.
Tech Tip: Protect your online privacy.
A lot of what you do online is tracked. There is no way to completely block or avoid all Internet trackers, but you can at least use a Virtual Private Network (VPN). Use my affiliate link below to get your VPN offer and I may get a commission if you make an online purchase at Namecheap’s website.
Start your free trial with Namecheap FastVPN!
Conclusion
In the digital age, data privacy isn’t a luxury but it’s actually a necessity. Even now, artificial intelligence systems all over the world are being fed with huge volume of users’ data.
As part of the Web3 revolution, adopting decentralized tools like IPFS is not just a temporary tech trend. IPFS offers a practical alternative to traditional cloud storage, giving you control, security, and freedom from centralized snooping.
It’s thus a crucial step that you take some steps now to begin protecting your digital life. What you do now can impact what happens later in your life. So, don’t wait until your data is compromised to act. Make data privacy a priority now.
