[FR] Request for Peer-to-Peer and End-to End Encrypted Sync Feature on Local Networks.

[nikunjkumarnakum]

Description

I am proposing the inclusion of a robust Peer-to-Peer (P2P) synchronization feature enhanced with End-to-End Encryption for our application. This feature aims to empower users to seamlessly sync data between devices on the same local network while ensuring the highest level of security and privacy.

Impact

Collaborative Teams:

Use Case: Teams working in close proximity, such as in an office environment.

Benefit: Enables real-time collaboration and data synchronization between team members without relying on external servers, leading to increased efficiency and productivity.

Small Businesses:

Use Case: Small businesses with multiple devices used by a limited number of employees.

Benefit: Offers a cost-effective and decentralized synchronization solution, contributing to data consistency and collaboration among team members without the need for complex server setups.

Privacy-Conscious Users:

Use Case: Individuals or organizations with concerns about data privacy and prefer local network solutions.

Benefit: Provides a sync option that does not involve external servers, enhancing data privacy and security.

Remote Areas or Limited Connectivity Environments:

Use Case: Users in areas with intermittent or limited internet connectivity.

Benefit: Enables synchronization between devices within the same local network even when internet access is challenging, ensuring continuity of work or collaboration.

Families and Home Networks:

Use Case: Family members sharing files or media within a household.

Benefit: Simplifies the sharing and syncing of data between family members on different devices within the same local network, fostering a seamless home computing experience.

Additional Context

Redundancy:

In a P2P environment, redundancy is improved, as data can be distributed across multiple devices. This enhances data resilience and availability, reducing the risk of data loss in case of device failures.

Offline Collaboration:

The feature emphasizes the ability to synchronize data even when devices are temporarily offline. This is particularly beneficial in scenarios where a stable internet connection cannot be guaranteed, ensuring uninterrupted collaboration and data access.

Cross-Platform Compatibility:

To maximize usability, the feature should aim for cross-platform compatibility, supporting various operating systems and devices commonly found in local network environments. This inclusivity ensures a broader reach and adoption across diverse user scenarios.

Enhanced Security and Confidentiality:

The integration of End-to-End Encryption ensures that all synchronized data is encrypted on the sender's device and can only be decrypted on the recipient's device. This level of security guarantees that even if the data is intercepted during transmission, it remains confidential and inaccessible to unauthorized entities.

Minimizing Server Dependency:

By focusing on local network synchronization, the feature aims to reduce dependency on external servers. This not only addresses privacy concerns but also mitigates potential issues related to server downtime or maintenance, providing a more robust and self-sufficient solution.

Mitigation of Third-Party Risks:

Reduced Dependence on External Servers: Minimizing reliance on external servers not only enhances privacy but also reduces the risks associated with third-party service providers. Users can have greater confidence in the security of their data, knowing that the synchronization process occurs directly between trusted devices on the local network.

Scalability in Large Local Networks:

Scalable Performance: The P2P architecture inherently scales with the number of connected devices. This scalability is crucial, particularly in large local networks where numerous devices may need to synchronize data simultaneously. The feature ensures optimal performance even in such environments.

[yuuz233]

What is the benefits of E2E if all traffic are aimed to "seamlessly sync data between devices on the same local network"? Are there untrusted devices on the chain in local? A general P2P implementation with basic encryption will suffice. Meanwhile it is much easier and likely to implement if these processes are handled by a different project not limited to a specific pkm program, like syncthing.