• Universities are using blockchain-based storage to protect and democratize data
• Centralized storage models can put critical information at risk of vanishing
• Decentralized storage helps secure and distribute data

Universities Using Blockchain-Based Storage

Universities use blockchain-based storage to protect and democratize data. This allows academic research to become more secure and accessible, as it provides a decentralized solution for storing information.

Risk Associated with Centralized Storage Models

Centralized data storage models pose a risk for universities looking to keep their critical information safe and accessible. According to the Filecoin Foundation survey, 71% of Americans have lost information due to deleted hyperlinks or locked online accounts.

Benefits of Decentralized Storage Solutions

Decentralizing data storage helps mitigate this risk by providing secure and distributed solutions for preserving research datasets. For example, educational institutions such as MIT, Harvard University, UC Berkeley, Stanford University, and South Carolina are all utilizing Filecoin’s decentralized web technology for storing important data on the blockchain.

MIT Open Learning Programs

MIT is currently working with the Filecoin Foundation for the Decentralized Web (FFDW) on a three-year project that explores how decentralized technology can support its Open Learning programs. These programs include OpenCourseWare which offers free online materials from over 2,500 MIT courses worldwide. Through FFDW’s support, they will use decentralized storage to host cataloging and preserve its OpenCourseWare materials while hosting seminars about the opportunities of the decentralized web.

Conclusion

Universities are increasingly turning towards decentralized solutions in order to provide secure access to their valuable academic resources. By utilizing blockchain-based technologies, universities can ensure that their data remains available in an open and immutable way for anyone who needs it.