Storing data on a single server or device comes with its risks, which is why redundancy mechanisms are crucial for avoiding single points of failure and ensuring file security.
This article will delve into the redundancy mechanisms of Arweave and IPFS, and which option is safer for your data.
Redundancy Mechanism of Arweave
Arweave is a blockchain designed specifically for permanent data storage, guaranteeing storage for at least 200 years through a one-time upfront payment.
Within Arweave’s one-time payment, there are at least 20 decentralized global network data copies.
Backup redundancy is a key feature of Arweave, essential for enhancing data security and maintaining operational stability. Even in the event of node failures or network issues, data remains secure and accessible.
Redundancy Mechanism of IPFS
There are various ways to store data on IPFS. You can self-host your own IPFS node or use third-party pinning services to host your data.
Self-hosting an IPFS node is a complex task that requires significant time and technical expertise. Data security cannot be guaranteed as long as there are single points of failure. Some third-party services may conveniently pin your data to a single node, which renders the data inaccessible if that node experiences downtime.
To address this single point of failure issue, pinning services generally employ data replication mechanisms:
– Filebase replicates data across three nodes located in Virginia, London, and Frankfurt.
– Web3.storage has agreements with various Filecoin storage providers to backup data in five copies.
– Estuary used to replicate data on six nodes but has ceased operations.
Your data is replicated on an average of 3-6 nodes, but does this resolve the issue of single points of failure?
Despite your data being stored in a decentralized manner, it is still tracked and located through centralized services. If the pinning service shuts down, your data will be deleted.
This is why most users choose to self-host or use additional pinning services, but this doubles the cost. Therefore, if you want to host your data on IPFS, you need to be prepared for a significant amount of maintenance.
Conclusion
Arweave’s minimum 20 copies offer more flexibility compared to IPFS’s pinning services. It requires less maintenance and monitoring costs, effectively saving your time, money, and resources. You don’t have to worry about monthly payments or the potential closure of the service you are using. Even if Akord, the platform through which you upload your data to Arweave, ceases operations, you can still access your data. Embrace Arweave now and securely store your data on the blockchain!