BigchainDB vs IPFS : What are the differences?

Introduction

In this article, we will explore the key differences between BigchainDB and IPFS, two popular technologies used in decentralized data storage and management. Both BigchainDB and IPFS offer innovative approaches to address the challenges of traditional centralized databases and file systems.

1. Data Structure and Use Case: BigchainDB is a blockchain database that enables the storage and management of structured data, making it suitable for scenarios that require querying and indexing. On the other hand, IPFS (InterPlanetary File System) is a distributed file system that focuses on storing and sharing files across a decentralized network. IPFS can handle unstructured data and is well-suited for scenarios where content addressing is crucial.

2. Consensus Mechanism: BigchainDB employs a consensus algorithm called "Byzantine Fault Tolerant (BFT) consensus," which is similar to traditional blockchain systems. BFT consensus ensures data integrity through a decentralized network of nodes, making it suitable for use cases that demand high reliability and security. IPFS, however, does not use a specific consensus mechanism. It relies on content addressing and a distributed hash table (DHT) protocol to ensure content availability and persistence.

3. Data Duplication and Deduplication: In BigchainDB, each transaction creates a new block which contains the entire dataset. This approach results in data redundancy, but it enables efficient querying and indexing. On the other hand, IPFS uses a content-addressable system, where identical files are automatically deduplicated. Instead of duplicating the same file multiple times, IPFS creates a single content identifier for each unique file, reducing storage redundancy.

4. Data Accessibility and Decentralization: BigchainDB operates as a permissioned blockchain, where access to data is controlled by predefined rules and permissions. It allows for different levels of access based on user roles and can integrate with existing authentication systems. IPFS, on the other hand, is a permissionless network that promotes open and unrestricted access to data. Anyone can read or write data to IPFS without requiring permissions or authentication, providing greater decentralization but potentially raising concerns about data privacy and security.

5. Blockchain Integration: BigchainDB is designed to integrate with blockchain networks like Ethereum. It can write metadata and references to transactions on a blockchain, enabling additional functionalities such as smart contracts and interoperability with other blockchain applications. IPFS, on the other hand, can be used as a decentralized storage layer for blockchain platforms, allowing blockchain applications to benefit from decentralized file storage and content addressing.

6. Scalability and Performance: BigchainDB focuses on providing high throughput and low latency compared to traditional blockchain systems. By using a database model instead of a raw ledger, BigchainDB achieves higher transaction speeds and can handle a large volume of data. IPFS, on the other hand, prioritizes data availability and resilience. While it can handle large file sizes and distribute data efficiently, the performance and latency of IPFS may vary based on network conditions and the availability of data nodes.

In summary, BigchainDB offers structured data storage with BFT consensus, permissioned control, and blockchain integration, suitable for scenarios that require querying and indexing. IPFS, on the other hand, focuses on decentralized file storage with content addressing, permissionless access, and seamless integration with blockchain platforms. Both technologies provide unique solutions to decentralized data management based on their distinct goals and design choices.