I know the primary goal of IPFS is to create a global cloud network, in which every internet user can easily and conveniently share files with any other user. On the other side, there are cases where groups need to share private data securely within their own circles: This is typically true for governments and state institutions, most corporations, research groups, universities, and so many more. As I’m eager to see IPFS gain early adoption, I would like to know if and how it plans to address sharing content within a private group.
I’m imagining a feature among the following lines: An IPFS node can be configured to operate as part of a group rather than publicly, where groups can be protected by a password which any node would need to enter in order to connect to it. When configured to be part of a group, the node only communicates with IPFS nodes which are also part of that group, nothing else. Only IPFS nodes that have entered the group name and password correctly can send and receive data with nodes who are also part of that group.
Just to be clear: I’m well aware this doesn’t stop a member of a group from configuring their IPFS node in a way that transmits the group’s private files to the public. People using this feature would be responsible to make sure they have no leakers in their network, and if they don’t it’s fully their responsibility.
Does such a system already exist, or is it planned? Would you find it useful if it was? Do you believe it will be beneficial to IPFS by also making it more practical for private groups as a secure sharing tool?