> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://stonest.gitbook.io/stonest-docs/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://stonest.gitbook.io/stonest-docs/introduction.md).

# Introduction

Stonest is a decentralized storage protocol that provides permanent, encrypted, and censorship-resistant data storage powered by a global network of independent node operators. The native token incentivizes network participation and enables a permissionless storage marketplace.

#### The Vision

In a world where data is the most valuable resource, control over data storage means control over information itself. Centralized cloud providers — Amazon Web Services, Google Cloud, Microsoft Azure — hold custody of the world's data, creating single points of failure, censorship vectors, and privacy risks.

Stonest reimagines storage from the ground up. By distributing encrypted data across thousands of independent nodes worldwide, Stonest eliminates single points of failure and returns data sovereignty to its owners.

#### Mission

To build the permanent storage layer for the decentralized web — a bedrock of encrypted, distributed, and economically incentivized data infrastructure that outlasts any single entity.

#### Key Principles

* **Permanence**: Data persists as long as the network lives. No deletions, no expiry.
* **Privacy**: Zero-knowledge encryption ensures nobody — not even node operators — can read your data.
* **Decentralization**: No single entity controls the network. Storage is distributed across 12,400+ nodes in 140+ countries.
* **Economic Alignment**: Node operators earn rewards for reliably storing data, creating a self-sustaining incentive layer.


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