Internxt Review: Is It Worth It?
Can you trust Internxt for secure and reliable cloud storage? This review covers everything: Internxt's history, features, strengths, weaknesses, and whether it's a top-tier cloud storage choice. Let's get straight to the point.
Background And History
Internxt, headquartered in Valencia, is on a mission to uphold individual privacy rights. They're committed to preserving the fundamental right to privacy in an ever-connected world. Their approach involves introducing a range of services that collectively contribute to safeguarding this essential right.
At the core of Internxt's offerings is their flagship service, Internxt Drive. This service stands out as a decentralized cloud storage solution. It leverages the InterPlanetary File System (IPFS) to ensure end-user files remain private and secure.
IPFS introduces a layer of anonymity by offering both local and global implementation options. This is achieved through cryptographic techniques that render nodes anonymous. In practical terms, this implies a departure from the need to entrust your data to large corporations, which often carry the risk of exposing it to third parties or losing it due to negligence.
In comparison to other services like BitTorrent Sync, which uses IPFS for data security, Internxt distinguishes itself by providing users with a web-based interface. This interface not only prioritizes user-friendliness but also boasts an appealing design.
Main Features
Internxt Drive is a standout example of a zero-knowledge file storage service, driven by an unwavering commitment to absolute privacy and robust security. The foundation of Internxt's cloud infrastructure lies in the innovative application of blockchain technology, creating a secure and decentralized environment that ensures the utmost protection for users' data and files. This security architecture is seamlessly integrated throughout the service, with files being meticulously encrypted, fragmented, and intelligently distributed across a complex network of nodes within the Internxt ecosystem.
Examining the features that comprise their subscription-based offering, Internxt presents a compelling range of capabilities.
Internxt Drive takes center stage in this offering, providing a dynamic and secure space for file storage that emphasizes user control and data security.
End-to-End Encryption stands as a pillar of data security, enveloping transmitted information in layers of protection.
Zero-Knowledge architecture ensures privacy by ensuring that even the platform itself remains oblivious to the actual content of stored files, giving users full control.
The landscape of File-Sharing expands, allowing users to selectively share files through generated links while maintaining security.
The importance of data preservation is evident through the inclusion of a robust Backups feature, guarding against potential data loss.
An Intuitive Interface reflects a user-centric approach, prioritizing accessibility and ease of use.
In the convergence of these features, Internxt emerges as a strong contender in the realm of cloud storage. With advanced technology, it strikes a balance between privacy and convenience, offering a suite of functionalities designed to cater to both security and user experience.
Decentralized Cloud Storage
The rise of decentralized cloud architectures has garnered increasing attention, offering a range of advantages over their centralized counterparts. These architectures tout benefits including cost-effectiveness, heightened security, robustness, privacy, and reliability, often surpassing what centralized models can provide. In contrast to the traditional approach adopted by major providers like Google, Dropbox, and Apple, decentralized cloud solutions are being championed by companies such as Internxt, Sia, Storj, MaidSafe, and Filecoin.
In the centralized paradigm, data from users is stored on physical servers owned and operated by the cloud provider. Some traditional providers implement client-side encryption for user data, while others may not prioritize this aspect. However, merely encrypting data at the client side is insufficient for comprehensive data protection.
Decentralized cloud storage is characterized by a distributed storage system across the world, whereas centralized storage is singularly controlled. In the centralized setup, the cloud controller maintains and operates the storage system through a central server. Conversely, the decentralized model utilizes clusters with distinct storage systems for each cluster. This architecture provides scalability, redundancy, and durability advantages within decentralized systems.
The absence of a centralized server in decentralized cloud storage eliminates a single point of failure. This means there is no lone server that could catastrophically fail, be destroyed, or be seized by third parties. Instead, decentralized systems disperse data across the disks of multiple operators, potentially spread across the globe.
Decentralized systems, as demonstrated by the success of the BitTorrent protocol, are inherently resistant to censorship, blocking, or shutdown due to the lack of a central entity that can be coerced. Downloads from such networks can efficiently draw data from multiple sources.
Research like the study by the School of Computing at the University of South Alabama underscores how the degree of centralization or decentralization has significant implications for cloud-based services' security and performance. Centralized components can heighten the risk of catastrophic failure in case of threats, while decentralized components offer risk compartmentalization.
Another study from the Polytechnic University of Bucharest highlights that centralized solutions introduce a single point of failure, emphasizing the advantages of decentralized storage with encryption capabilities.
Internxt Drive, a user-friendly cloud storage service, aligns with these principles. It embraces zero-knowledge encryption while differentiating itself by leveraging a global data center infrastructure. Internxt Drive employs fragmentation, client-side encryption, and distribution across its network, ensuring comprehensive data security.
Decentralized storage clusters bolster security through compartmentalization, fortifying against unauthorized access. Even if one storage array is breached, attackers cannot infiltrate the cloud's compute component. Files in these systems are typically divided into segments, each with a distinct address and minimal context metadata.
Decentralized compute components isolate resource scheduling, enhancing stability. In cases of compromise or errors, the isolated component can go offline without affecting the entire cloud.
In summary, decentralized cloud architectures offer heightened security through isolation and distribution. Their compartmentalized design and distributed nature enhance stability and security, making them a compelling alternative to traditional centralized models.
Internxt Send
Internxt Send is a dedicated platform for secure file sharing. It empowers users to transmit various file types to recipients, all while ensuring top-tier security. With Internxt Send, sharing files becomes a streamlined process through an intuitive sharing link. This service integrates seamlessly into the Internxt ecosystem, underlining its commitment to providing a comprehensive suite of tools for secure data management.
A hallmark feature of Internxt Send is its user-friendly interface, which simplifies the sharing of files while maintaining a strong emphasis on security. This platform offers an easy and efficient solution for sending files of any nature, securely and without hassle.
One of the distinctive advantages of Internxt Send is its seamless integration with Internxt's pioneering architecture. This architecture, designed to revolutionize data security, is applied to the files uploaded through Send, ensuring that robust security measures are consistently in place.
Access to Internxt Send is available at no cost for users with an Internxt account. This user-friendly service aligns with Internxt's overarching mission to provide secure and private data management solutions. Through Internxt Send, users can confidently share files, knowing that their privacy and security remain paramount.
Internxt Mail
Internxt Mail stands as a fortified email service designed to prioritize security in communication. This platform introduces a heightened level of privacy and control to the realm of email. With Internxt Mail, users have the flexibility to configure the service with their own domain or choose to operate under a @internxt.com email address. Seamlessly integrating into the Internxt framework, this service amplifies the commitment to delivering secure and comprehensive data management solutions.
A defining feature of Internxt Mail is its versatile adaptability. Users can effortlessly set up their email system, tailoring it to their own domain or opting for an @internxt.com address. This versatility ensures that users' preferences and individuality are respected while still enjoying the benefits of a secure communication platform.
Internxt Mail extends its appeal by offering this service to users free of charge through their Internxt accounts. The foundation of this service rests on zero-knowledge client-side encryption. This pioneering encryption strategy ensures that only the authorized user has access to their emails, thereby fortifying data privacy.
What sets Internxt Mail apart is its rigorous security protocol. The architecture has been meticulously designed to uphold the highest standards of privacy, with a zero-knowledge approach extending from encryption to the handling of data. This means that neither the Internxt team nor any external third party can access the content of emails exchanged within the Internxt ecosystem.
Presently in its beta phase, Internxt Mail is actively being fine-tuned to ensure seamless functionality and enhanced security. As part of Internxt's continuous commitment to innovation, the service is expected to be released to the general public in the coming months, offering a potent and secure alternative within the realm of email communication.
Privacy
Internxt places a paramount emphasis on safeguarding your privacy through an array of advanced measures:
Internxt employs military-grade encryption through AES-256, guaranteeing that all the data stored within your account remains comprehensively protected. This level of encryption is so formidable that it would take an immeasurable amount of time for even the most powerful processors to decrypt even a minute file.
Integral to Internxt's privacy framework is its implementation of zero-knowledge technology. This steadfast approach ensures that your files, photos, passwords, and any other forms of data never become visible to unauthorized users or servers. This commitment to zero-knowledge reinforces your data's confidentiality throughout its journey within the Internxt ecosystem.
A cornerstone of Internxt's strategy is its GDPR-compliant synchronization. This signifies a resolute commitment to adhering to the stipulations outlined in the General Data Protection Regulation. From "privacy by design" principles to ensuring individuals' rights to information and the right to be forgotten, Internxt takes proactive steps to meet these provisions while remaining attuned to evolving privacy regulations.
End-to-end encryption is woven into every facet of Internxt's service. All data you store or transfer undergoes encryption before departing your device. This design ensures that decryption remains impossible without explicit user consent. Notably, not even the Internxt team holds the ability to access your files, photos, or passwords, safeguarding your privacy down to the minutest detail.
Apps And Software
Internxt covers a broad spectrum of app and software offerings to ensure accessibility across multiple platforms:
Internxt's range includes mobile apps, desktop apps, and web apps that cater to Mac, Windows, Linux, iOS, and Android users. This diverse coverage underlines the brand's commitment to an all-inclusive user experience.
These apps enable secure access to files from various devices, be it a computer, smartphone, tablet, or any internet-connected device. Internxt's cloud storage apps ensure that your data is readily available whenever you need it.
Within Internxt Drive, users can tap into functionalities that foster efficient file organization. Folders can be created, files renamed, and lists filtered for quicker access. Additionally, the option to back up specific computer folders, like documents, ensures that you're always working with the latest versions of your essential files.
Overall, Internxt's array of apps and software seamlessly connect your files to your preferred devices, enhancing accessibility and user convenience.
Payment Methods
Internxt currently accepts traditional payment methods such as Debit and Credit cards (Mastercard, VISA, American Express, etc), and Apple, and Google Pay.
Under request, it also accepts iDeal, Cryptocurrency, Bancontact, EPS, Giropay, SEPA Debit, P24, and Sofort. To request an invoice using one of the alternative methods described above, simply email the team at hello@internxt.com
Internxt does not accept PayPal.
Pricing
Internxt 10GB: FREE
- Enjoy up to 10GB forever
- Encrypted file storage and sharing
- Access your files from any device
- Get access to every service
Internxt 20GB: €0.99/month or €10.89/year (8% OFF)
- Enjoy up to 20GB forever
- Encrypted file storage and sharing
- Access your files from any device
- Get access to every service
Internxt 200GB: €4.49/month or €10.89/year (22% OFF)
- Enjoy up to 200GB forever
- Encrypted file storage and sharing
- Access your files from any device
- Get access to every service
Internxt 1TB Lifetime: €99 (66% OFF)
- Enjoy up to 1TB forever
- Encrypted file storage and sharing
- Access your files from any device
- Get access to every service
Internxt 5TB Lifetime: €299 (40% OFF)
- Enjoy up to 5TB forever
- Encrypted file storage and sharing
- Access your files from any device
- Get access to every service
Internxt 10TB Lifetime: €499 (50% OFF)
- Enjoy up to 10TB forever
- Encrypted file storage and sharing
- Access your files from any device
- Get access to every service
Internxt Pros & Cons
Internxt: Pros
- Uses blockchain technology
- Outstanding privacy features
- User-friendly apps and software
- Fair pricing
- Offers lifetime subscriptions
Internxt: Cons
- Speeds need improvement
- Doesn't have lots of features
- It doesn't have a preview feature for video, pdf, and zip files
- Customer support response times need improvement
Internxt Review: Verdict
After our Internxt review, we found this to be one of the most promising cloud storage services in the market today.
Few companies take privacy as seriously as Internxt, their approach to use blockchain to achieve this speaks to the team's commitment and outlook to a private and secure future, Internxt has even developed its own cryptocurrency.
Internxt offers its users user-friendly apps and software that work on every major platform, the pricing is very fair and they offer some great value lifetime subscription plans.
On the downside, Internxt's speeds aren't great, and it still lacks some features when compared to other alternatives in the market.
That being said, Internxt is committed in further improving and developing its services, and already has a number of features in line to be released in the near future.
If you'd like to get 20% OFF Internxt annual subscription plans, simply follow the link below!
2 Comments
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I have been a client for 2TB lifetime since April 10 2021. I am now (June 1, 2022) in release 1.9.0 (latest for 2022.06.01).
So far, I am using 540GB. The tech problems in the beginning were many and were resolved very slowly, but at least support and CTO were close to resolving them. I was amazed to see that they did a special call with me for a fix that helped solve some of the early bugs.
However, as time passes by, support has become slow and does not offer real solutions, coming to a halt. Support is not responding at all now.
There are two issues/bugs that cannot be resolved by support from May 8, 2022 till June 1, 2022 at the moment:
A) VERY PROBLEMATIC:
There is a strange phenomenon happening with sync on windows 10 pc.
Delete Case 1:
– I deleted a file locally
– After syncing, the file is brought from cloud locally
Resulting Problem: I cannot delete files
Delete Case 2:
– I deleted a file via web interface
– After syncing, the file is brought from local file to cloud
Resulting Problem: I cannot delete files
Rename Case 1:
– I rename a file locally
– After syncing, the file is brought from cloud locally as it was before renaming and local file is loaded as new file on cloud.
Resulting Problem: I end up having duplicate files with original name and renamed name locally and on cloud.
Rename Case 2:
– I rename a file via web interface
– After syncing, the file is brought from cloud locally as it is renamed and local file is loaded as it was before renaming on cloud.
Resulting Problem: I end up having duplicate files with original name and renamed name locally and on cloud.
The whole sync mechanism seems that it misbehaves!!!
B) No link for files larger than 1GB
Internxt has a file share link option with some very likable attribute. You can share a link for only a number of downloads. This feature is superb. BUT, it does not work on files larger than 1GB. I have such a large storage for big files but I can only share files with less than 1GB. That is not something that I was looking for. This is anticipated for many months and support has not resolved this either.
I hope that support becomes once again what used to be in the beginning, supportive. For the time being it simply neglects the clients.
Hi Iason, sorry to hear that, and thanks for sharing your feedback, we are going to take it into consideration and investigate the issue.