Decentralized File Sharing using BitTorrent

Decentralized File Sharing:

Decentralized file sharing refers to the distribution of files across a network of nodes without
relying on a central authority or server. Traditionally, when we wanted to share a file, we would
upload it to a central server and then others would download it from there. However,
decentralized file sharing completely changes this approach by allowing files to be distributed
directly from one user to another, cutting out the need for intermediaries.

How Does Decentralized File Sharing Work?

In a decentralized file sharing system, files are divided into small pieces and distributed across
the network of nodes. Each node stores a part of the file, and when someone requests that file,
the nodes collaborate to retrieve and assemble the pieces. This process ensures that files are
always available, even if some nodes go offline.

Centralized File Sharing:

Centralized file sharing involves a model where files are stored, managed, and distributed
through a central server or a small number of servers controlled by a single entity. In this
model, users connect to the central server to upload, download, and share files. Popular
examples of centralized file-sharing services include traditional cloud storage platforms like
Dropbox, Google Drive, and centralized file hosting websites.

Why do we need Decentralized File Sharing?

->Decentralized systems distribute files across multiple nodes, reducing the risk of a single
point of failure. If one node goes down, the network can still function.
->Decentralized systems are less susceptible to censorship as there is no central authority to
control or restrict access to files.
->Users have greater control over their data, and the decentralized nature of the systems
reduces the risk of unauthorized access or surveillance.
->Decentralized systems often operate on a peer-to-peer model, allowing users to contribute
resources (such as storage space).
->Some decentralized file-sharing platforms leverage blockchain technology to provide
additional layers of security, transparency, and token-based incentives for participants.
Decentralized File Sharing Using with..

1. BitTorrent: BitTorrent is one of the most well-known decentralized file-sharing protocols. It

operates on a peer-to-peer network where users, known as "peers," share and distribute files
directly with each other without relying on a central server.

Working :A user downloads a torrent file or magnet link, which contains metadata about the
files and information on how to connect to other users. The user's BitTorrent client then
connects to other peers in the network to download and upload pieces of the files
simultaneously.

Advantages: BitTorrent allows for faster downloads by distributing the load across multiple
peers, enabling users to download different parts of a file simultaneously. As more users join
the network, the overall download speed can increase, making it scalable for large user bases.

Disadvantages: New torrents may suffer from slow download speeds until a user (seeder) with
the complete file joins the network.

2. IPFS (InterPlanetary File System):IPFS is a protocol and network designed to create a

content-addressable, peer-to-peer method of storing and sharing hypermedia in a distributed
file system.

Working: IPFS uses a distributed hash table (DHT) to address content by its unique hash,
making it content-addressable. When a user requests a file, the IPFS network locates the file
using its hash.

Advantages: No central server or authority controls the files, making it resistant to censorship
and ensuring availability.

Disadvantages: UsingIPFS may require a learning curve for users unfamiliar with
content-addressable storage systems. Depending on the network and file popularity, retrieval
speeds might vary, potentially causing latency.
3. Storj: Storj is a decentralized cloud storage platform that leverages blockchain technology
for secure and distributed file storage.Users can rent out their unused storage space

Working: Storj users can store and retrieve files on the network by connecting with storage
node operators. The platform ensures redundancy and security by distributing file fragments
across multiple nodes.

Advantages: Storj employs encryption and redundancy to enhance the security and availability
of stored data. Storj can unused storage space on participants' devices, creating a
decentralized

Disadvantages: The reliability of data storage depends on the availability and trustworthiness
of the individual node operators.The effectiveness of the network may be limited by the
number of participants and available storage.

4. Filecoin: Filecoin is a decentralized storage network that utilizes blockchain technology to

create a marketplace for file storage. Users can buy and sell storage space using the Filecoin
cryptocurrency (FIL)

Working: Filecoin miners provide storage space to the network, and clients pay them in
Filecoin cryptocurrency (FIL) for storing and retrieving files.

Advantages: Filecoin introduces a marketplace for storage, allowing users to buy and sell
storage space with economic incentives.

Disadvantages: The integration of blockchain and cryptographic proofs can add complexity to
the system, potentially making it less user-friendly.
Benifits of using BitTorrent in Decentralized File Sharing:

->Downloading file pieces from multiple users simultaneously leads to faster overall download
speeds compared to single-source downloads.
->By distributing the load across various users, BitTorrent takes pressure off individual servers,
preventing bottlenecks and congestion.
->The network can seamlessly handle large numbers of users downloading the same file
without compromising performance.
->Decentralized nature: Without a central server, the network is harder to shut down or censor,
promoting open access to information.
->File pieces are distributed across numerous users, ensuring the file remains available even if
some users leave the network.
->If a user drops out, others can pick up the slack, minimizing download disruptions. Other
benefits:
->No reliance on expensive server infrastructure keeps costs low for both distributors and
users.
->BitTorrent offers more privacy compared to centralized servers that log user activity.