BitDust

BitDust is a free, open-source initiative that aims at implementing the decentralized blockchain technology in the data storage and management sector, trying to overcome conventional limitations imposed by traditional entities, companies that end up owning the data you initially uploaded for safekeeping.

All uses who are part of the network and use this service have an encrypted form of everyone else’s data. Each BitDust network user can allocate their private data on the machines of other users participating in the network — they are all peers, equal in rights and status, as there is no central authority that holds the data (a main server/a centralized location, etc.) When I upload my files into the app, a copies of these gets stored on the machines/devices of my suppliers (other users just like me).

Having a distributed data storage system will allow for greater flexibility, easier data recovery, and anonymity. Logging into the network is done a bit differently than you traditionally access your storage accounts: you must not go through any verification process, consent to long lists of terms and conditions, or give information such as your email, phone number, location, etc. All you need for setting up your account is your name and the private key that is generated and saved for you locally, in your computer.

Given the incredible advantages a system like this one allows you to have, a lot of people might think it’s too good to be true or some might just be reluctant to even try it. Indeed, the blockchain technology has long been discussed and many on-going projects with varied implementations appear on the market. Knowing all users in the network have a copy of your data can be an unsettling thought. However, there is no worry about that: the user identity files are protected by a digital signature, based on the user's private key that is only available to each individual person.

This digital signature is the result of a complex hashing process that is irreversible and will help encrypt your files’ identity and create an associative link between the uploads and the virtual persona you created. Another thing to specify is that, in blockchain, all blocks of code that were added to write information are stored forever, meaning your secret identity can’t be deleted/altered/modified/stolen — it will always belong to you.

Although in its early stage (the app is in the pre-release, alpha version), the tool seems promising. The GUI looks very good but could use some practicality and functionality improvements, plus a more intuitive design. The program's main four sections are — 'Files' (for data handling and file management), 'Friend' (a section intended for those who want to rapidly, safely, securely exchange files in the network), 'Settings' (which is definitely not an intuitive part and looks designed for technical people only), and the 'Blockchain' tab (for future scheduled tokenization purposes).

In conclusion, the BitDust initiative is applaudable and it seems to be an extremely resourceful project. I would not advise installation for non-technical people as, in its current form, it might seem overwhelming or a bit frustrating to handle it. Given the amazing form of the alpha version, the well-written documentation, and the team’s roadmap, I can’t wait to see how the project will evolve in the future. BitDust is definitely worth keeping an eye on!