A Decentralized Cloud Storage Security Framework Based on IPFS and Ethereum Integration

Abstract

The rapid evolution of cloud computing has revolutionized digital data storage and sharing, enabling users to access information anytime and anywhere. Despite these advantages, cloud-based systems face major challenges related to data security, privacy protection, and trust management, particularly when handling sensitive user information. Conventional cloud storage solutions operate on centralized architectures, where a single cloud service provider manages and controls the stored data. This centralized model introduces significant risks, including single points of failure, unauthorized data access, data manipulation, and limited visibility into data-sharing activities. In many traditional systems, data protection mechanisms rely on basic encryption methods without strong auditing or verification features, leaving them vulnerable to insider attacks and external cyber threats. Furthermore, the absence of immutable transaction records and robust key management practices reduces accountability and weakens user confidence in cloud environments. To address these shortcomings, the proposed system presents a secure cloud data sharing framework that combines Elliptic Curve Cryptography (ECC) with blockchain technology. In this approach, user files are encrypted using ECC before being uploaded to the cloud, ensuring strong data confidentiality and protection against unauthorized access. Simultaneously, blockchain technology is employed to record file metadata and transaction details in a decentralized and tamper-resistant ledger, enabling transparent and verifiable audit trails. The decentralized architecture eliminates reliance on a single authority, enhances trust, and prevents unauthorized modification of stored records. Additionally, secure authentication and controlled access mechanisms further reinforce system security. By integrating advanced cryptographic encryption with decentralized verification, the proposed solution enhances data integrity, improves transparency, and establishes a reliable and accountable framework for secure cloud data sharing.