E2E encrypted file manager with great UX

[shahadpichen]

Open Grant Proposal: ZeroDrive - End-to-End Encrypted File Storage on Filecoin

Project Name: ZeroDrive

Proposal Category: Storage

Individual or Entity Name: Individual

Proposer: shahadpichen

Project Repo(s): zerodrive

(Optional) Filecoin ecosystem affiliations: None.

(Optional) Technical Sponsor: None.

Do you agree to open source all work you do on behalf of this RFP under the MIT/Apache-2 dual-license?: Yes

Project Summary

ZeroDrive is an open-source, end-to-end encrypted file storage solution currently built on Google Drive. This grant proposal aims to expand ZeroDrive’s functionality by adding support for decentralized file storage on Filecoin, while also enhancing the user interface and experience. The first version, focused on secure file storage via Google Drive, has already been released on Product Hunt and is available at ZeroDrive. With Filecoin integration, ZeroDrive will offer users even more privacy and control over their data by eliminating centralized dependencies.

The project’s transition to Filecoin will enable users to store their files in a trustless environment, with encryption performed locally before uploading. This ensures that control over data remains solely with the user, eliminating any reliance on centralized entities. By doing so, the project aligns with the decentralized principles of Filecoin, promoting privacy, user autonomy, and secure file management.

Impact

With growing concerns about data privacy in cloud storage, ZeroDrive addresses the need for a secure, decentralized alternative. Current centralized services, like Google Drive, can be vulnerable to data breaches and unauthorized access. ZeroDrive’s end-to-end encryption ensures that only the file owner can access their data, and Filecoin’s decentralized infrastructure further guarantees this by eliminating single points of failure.

The successful integration of ZeroDrive with Filecoin will create a model for privacy-focused file storage solutions, helping to build trust in decentralized platforms and encouraging more people to use Filecoin. If we don’t achieve this, it could mean continued dependence on insecure, centralized systems. Success for ZeroDrive means that privacy-minded users adopt it easily, supporting the decentralization movement and demonstrating Filecoin’s strengths in secure storage.

Outcomes

• A fully functional application that encrypts and stores files on the Filecoin network.
• Documentation for users to easily upload and retrieve files from Filecoin.
• A polished user interface enabling non-technical users to interact with decentralized storage.
• Tutorials and guides that help users migrate from centralized services (like Google Drive) to Filecoin.

Success Metrics:

• Number of files successfully stored and retrieved on Filecoin using ZeroDrive.
• Positive user feedback and engagement.
• Community contributions and feature requests post-launch.
• User adoption rates over a six-month period after release.

Adoption, Reach, and Growth Strategies

ZeroDrive’s target audience consists of privacy advocates, developers, and organizations seeking secure file storage solutions. The goal is to engage with communities that prioritize privacy and data sovereignty, such as privacy-focused forums and open-source contributors.

To onboard new users:

• Early access to ZeroDrive will be offered via public beta testing, targeting privacy-focused communities.
• Comprehensive documentation and video tutorials will lower the technical barrier for users.
• Active communication on social media and developer forums will raise awareness and encourage adoption.

The goal is to onboard the first 100 users by focusing on privacy communities and leveraging word-of-mouth

Development Roadmap

Milestone 1: Filecoin Integration (Month 1)

• Goal: Fully integrate Filecoin’s storage API with ZeroDrive.
• Deliverables:
  • Encryption of files and storage on Filecoin.
  • Retrieval functionality from the Filecoin network.
• Team: One developer (shahadpichen)
• Funding: $5,000
• Completion Date: End of Month 1

Milestone 2: User Interface and Documentation (Month 2)

• Goal: Enhance the user interface and provide full documentation.
• Deliverables:
  • User-friendly interface for uploading and retrieving files.
  • Documentation covering installation, usage, and migration guides.
• Team: One developer (shahadpichen)
• Funding: $5,000
• Completion Date: End of Month 2

Total Budget Requested

Milestone #	Description	Deliverables	Completion Date	Funding
1	Filecoin Integration	Encrypt and store files on Filecoin	End of Month 1	$5,000
2	UI and Documentation Enhancements	Improved UI and full documentation	End of Month 2	$5,000

Maintenance and Upgrade Plans

After launch, ZeroDrive will be actively maintained with updates based on user feedback and emerging security practices. Regular audits will be conducted to ensure the integrity and privacy of the system, especially as Filecoin evolves. Future improvements include:

• Additional decentralized storage integrations.
• Optimized file retrieval mechanisms.
• User experience enhancements based on community input.

Team

Team Member

• shahadpichen - Full-stack developer and sole maintainer of ZeroDrive.

Team Member LinkedIn Profiles

• LinkedIn - shahadpichen

Relevant Experience

I am a full-stack developer focused on frontend tools, passionate about technology, and interested in privacy. These interests led to the creation of ZeroDrive, a project aimed at providing a secure and decentralized alternative to mainstream file storage solutions. While my focus is on frontend development, I am committed to building privacy-conscious applications and excited to continue evolving ZeroDrive with Filecoin integration.

Team code repositories

• zerodrive

Additional Information

I learned about the Open Grants Program through the Filecoin community forums.

For discussions related to the grant agreement and further steps, please reach me at [email protected].