InterPlanetary File System
InterPlanetary File System is a protocol and peer-to-peer network for storing and sharing data. IPFS users host and receive content similar to BitTorrent, but instead of a centrally located server; IPFS is a decentralized system.
IPFS has become a popular solution for hosting NFT media and metadata.
Benefits of IPFS:
- Media and metadata stored on IPFS may be more resilient to outages
eg. If a single server (or node) on the network fails or ceases service, the data is normally accessible via another member of the network. - Possibility of faster data delivery (dependent on proximity of nodes)
Risks of IPFS:
- Data may not be distributed among multiple nodes, creating the same risk as a centralized system. This may be mitigated by using "pinning" services that incentivize nodes to host your data.
- Possibility of increased latency (compared to a traditional CDN)
Using IPFS with your NFT.Kred Hub:
-
IPFS as Primary Storage - IPFS is the main and public delivery mechanism, the NFT application itself will use the CDN for performance. Secondary marketplaces such as OpenSea will use the IPFS link.
-
IPFS as Secondary Storage - IPFS is available and alternate links are provided in the ERC721 metadata.
-
Off (default) - Files are not distributed via IPFS.
For more information go to: https://ipfs.io/#how