The InterPlanetary File System (IPFS) is a global, peer-to-peer distributed versioned file system. IPFS serves as an underlying internet protocol, similar to the HTTP protocol, and was launched on May 5th, 2015. Its goal is to supplement or even replace the currently dominant Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP) that governs the internet. IPFS is a transport protocol and not a blockchain project. It does not utilize any blockchain technology. However, it embodies the decentralized spirit often associated with blockchain. Therefore, IPFS does not have its own token or cryptocurrency; Filecoin serves as the token and is mined within the IPFS network. The objective of IPFS is to create a more open, fast, and secure internet. It utilizes a distributed hash table to address data transmission and location issues, transforming the traditional point-to-point transmission into a peer-to-peer (P2P) transmission. The data storage structure in IPFS is based on a hash chain. In summary, IPFS is a distributed versioned file system designed to build a more open, fast, and secure internet. It leverages P2P transmission and a distributed hash table to address data transmission and location challenges.

The Filecoin project can be understood as an incentive system running on the IPFS network. FIL is the token issued by the Filecoin project on the Filecoin blockchain. Its full name is Filecoin, with the symbol FIL.

The goal of IPFS is to surpass HTTP and create a better network for all users. IPFS can save significant bandwidth, with video content potentially seeing up to 60% savings. This allows for efficient distribution of large amounts of data without duplication. IPFS retains every version of a file and simplifies the process of setting up flexible networks to mirror data. By providing the necessary technology to realize this vision, IPFS remains faithful to the original vision of an open and decentralized network. IPFS empowers the creation of a persistent and diversified network, independent of whether there is an internet backbone connection. This means it can provide improved connectivity, particularly in developing countries or during natural disasters when using Wi-Fi in local coffee shops. Overall, IPFS is a distributed transmission network that significantly enhances internet security, stability, and work efficiency. It has already found applications in various fields such as finance, social networking, data management, and gaming.

1.Storage computing power (hard drive): This method involves contributing storage space on your hard drive to the IPFS network. By allocating a portion of your hard drive capacity, you participate in storing and distributing files within the IPFS network. 2.Retrieval computing power (bandwidth): This method involves contributing bandwidth to the IPFS network. Bandwidth is used for retrieving files from the IPFS network, enabling efficient distribution and sharing of data among network participants. These two types of computing power methods play crucial roles in the functioning of the IPFS network, allowing for decentralized storage and efficient retrieval of files.

1.Participate in Filecoin computing power: Filecoin serves as the incentive layer for IPFS, with a total token supply of 2 billion. Currently, there is an increasing number of participants in Filecoin computing power. However, overall, it is still considered an early stage with significant potential returns. The price of FIL token is still relatively low, making it a good opportunity for early-stage investment. There are various ways to participate in computing power, such as investing in mining farms, purchasing cloud computing power, or acquiring servers. Among these options, purchasing computing power, such as from Starling Harbor, offers advantages such as low entry barriers, high returns, and controllable risks. 2.Purchase FIL tokens: Another way to get involved is by purchasing FIL tokens. This allows you to start building your holdings and position yourself in the Filecoin ecosystem. By acquiring FIL tokens, you can participate in the Filecoin network and potentially benefit from the growth of the ecosystem. 3.Participate in ecosystem development: Filecoin, as a distributed storage network, has tremendous potential for storage application development. The official team provides support and incentives for ecosystem development. If you have the technical expertise, you can independently participate in the development and construction of ecosystem applications. Although the returns from this method may not be immediate, it holds great potential for future growth and is worth considering. These three approaches offer different opportunities to engage with the Filecoin ecosystem, whether through computing power, token investment, or ecosystem development.