Decentralized data management has long been hailed as a game-changer in the Web3 space, but according to Rebecca Simmonds, Managing Executive at Walrus Foundation, it has not reached its full potential yet. Currently, data on Web3 storage solutions is public by default, encryption is left up to app developers, and access control is either hard-coded or missing entirely.
However, a groundbreaking solution is set to change the game with the launch of Seal, a decentralized secrets management (DSM) service on Walrus’ decentralized storage platform. This marks the first time a decentralized data management solution has offered access control, according to Seal and Walrus developer Mysten Labs.
Seal empowers users to control access to their data stored on Walrus, providing a level of security and privacy that was previously lacking in the Web3 ecosystem. This access control feature is a game-changer for Walrus, as it allows users to determine who can access their data, when they can access it, and even monetize access if they choose to do so.
Coupled with Seal’s threshold encryption, users can now enjoy fine-grained and programmable data access to their stored data on Walrus. This opens up a world of possibilities, such as offering limited access to AI models for a price or using NFTs to unlock access to content like video or music files.
One of the key advantages of using Walrus and Seal is the ability to truly own and control NFTs. Unlike traditional NFTs that are just links and can disappear, on Walrus, users have full ownership and control over their NFTs, ensuring that they remain intact and accessible.
Walrus, created by Mysten Labs, is not just a decentralized data storage solution—it aims to be a data layer for Web3. Every piece of data stored on Walrus is treated as a container, allowing users to write smart contracts that govern how that data behaves. This level of control and customization is unprecedented in the Web3 space.
With Seal’s secret management service, users have the freedom to control and derive value from their data in ways that were previously impossible. For example, artists could store their music on Walrus, control who can listen to it and when, and get paid instantly without intermediaries taking a cut.
Leading brands in the Web3 space are already leveraging Walrus for various use cases, including NFT collections, decentralized AI training platforms, and decentralized ad networks. The platform’s flexibility and security make it ideal for AI applications, ensuring that data integrity is maintained throughout the training process.
In recent hackathons, innovative applications like SuiSign and Walpress have showcased the diverse capabilities of Walrus. Partnerships are also in the works to explore new and unique use cases that leverage the combined power of Walrus and Seal.
Overall, Walrus is positioning itself as a modern data platform for modern blockchain solutions, offering a level of control, security, and customization that is unparalleled in the Web3 ecosystem. With Seal’s launch, the future of decentralized data management looks brighter than ever.
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