Decentralized Storage: IPFS & Arweave

Written by Russo • Updated: July 2025

Locanox uses IPFS (InterPlanetary File System) to store and retrieve encrypted files in a decentralized way, without relying on centralized servers or cloud services. This allows your files to be accessible when online, but never stored in a traceable or permanent identity-bound manner.

When you upload a file in Private Online Mode, it’s encrypted locally first, then broadcasted to the IPFS network using a randomized relay. The file is assigned a content hash (CID) that can be used to retrieve it from any compatible IPFS gateway. No username, no account, and no metadata are attached.

This means you can store vault backups, encrypted AI memories, or shareable files without revealing identity or location. IPFS storage in Locanox is entirely optional and only used when you decide to go online.

🔐 How It Works:

• Files are encrypted before uploading

All files are encrypted locally using your vault’s encryption system before any network transmission.

• Uploaded via ephemeral relay, not direct connection

Files are transmitted through anonymous relay networks to prevent IP address exposure.

• Stored under IPFS CID, not account ID

Files are identified by their content hash (CID), not user accounts or personal identifiers.

• No usernames, emails, or trackers

No personal information is required or stored with your files on the network.

• Retrieval requires CID + decryption key

Access to files requires both the IPFS content identifier and your local decryption key.

• Offline mode always keeps original file locally

Your files remain accessible offline regardless of network availability.

Benefits of Decentralized Storage

Using IPFS through Locanox provides:

1. Censorship Resistance: Files are distributed across multiple nodes, making them hard to censor
2. No Central Authority: No single company or government controls access to your data
3. Privacy Protection: Your identity is never linked to stored files
4. Global Accessibility: Files can be accessed from anywhere with IPFS connectivity
5. Redundancy: Multiple copies across the network ensure availability

This approach gives you the benefits of online storage while maintaining the privacy and security principles of Locanox’s offline-first design.