IPFS (InterPlanetary File System)
A peer-to-peer protocol for storing and sharing files by their content hash rather than a server location.
On the regular web you fetch a file from a location, like a server address. IPFS fetches by content. Each file gets a content identifier derived from its data, and any node holding that data can serve it. Change one byte and the identifier changes, so links are tamper-evident. NFT projects often store images and metadata this way.
The common misconception is that IPFS is permanent storage. It is not. A file stays available only while some node chooses to keep it pinned. If everyone drops it, the content disappears, even though the link still looks valid. Services like Pinata or Filecoin add paid persistence.
Related terms
A blockchain token that represents ownership of a unique item, where no two units are interchangeable.
HashA fixed-length fingerprint produced by running data through a one-way function; any change yields a completely different output.
DecentralizationSpreading control and data across many independent participants so no single party can dictate or shut things down.
NodeA computer running a blockchain's software, keeping a copy of the ledger and relaying transactions to peers.