Blockchain Based Security Enhancement in Decentralized Storage of IPFS Using Filecoin

Decentralized storage alternatives are the revolutionary way to overcome the shortcomings of centralized data storage systems. These alternatives rely on security, privacy, and scalability through blockchain technology. Filecoin is one of the most popular decentralized storage networks that relies on Proof of Spacetime (PoSt) and smart contracts to ensure data integrity, incentivize storage, and provide significant data access. This paper discusses Filecoin's architecture, focusing on its pros and cons. Further propose new optimizations using zk-SNARKs to reduce computational overhead, and dynamic challenge-response mechanisms for enhancing real-time data verification. In addition, further explore automated storage agreements with the help of smart contracts to enhance efficiency and usability. Comparing the performance against other platforms like Storj and Sia; Filecoin is ahead of them but also has room to improve. Finally, outline future research directions: energy-efficient proof systems, cross-chain interoperability.