> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://inflection.mintlify.site/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Decentralized storage

Decentralized Storage ensures Verifiable Credentials (VCs) and profile data are stored in a tamper-resistant, globally accessible manner, using protocols like IPFS. By storing data off-chain and anchoring hashes on-chain, this component supports scalability while maintaining verifiability.

## Theoretical Role

* **Data Distribution**: Stores VCs across a decentralized network.
* **Content Addressing**: Generates unique hashes for data retrieval.
* **On-Chain Linkage**: Anchors hashes in the IdentityRegistry for trust.

```mermaid theme={null}
graph LR
    A[VC Data] -->|Upload| B[Decentralized Network IPFS]
    B -->|Generates| C[IPFS Hash]
    C -->|Anchors| D[Identity Registry]
    E[External Protocol] -->|Fetches via Hash| B
```

## Explanation

* **Storage**: VCs are stored off-chain for scalability.
* **Verification**: Hashes link to on-chain registry for trust.