Storj is introducing a new passphrase management system, designed to simplify encryption and account security for our users. With this update, customers will have the option to opt into Storj-managed passphrases, enhancing convenience without compromising security.
What’s Changing?
Previously, customers were responsible for creating and managing their encryption passphrases manually. This update introduces an automated system that:
- Allows customers to opt-in for Storj to manage encryption passphrases for specific projects.
- Provides the flexibility to have some projects use Storj-managed passphrases while others continue with self-managed encryption passphrases.
- Maintains the highest standards of encryption and security for all projects, regardless of management choice.
Key Benefits
- Flexibility: Configure passphrase management on a project-by-project basis, adapting to the unique needs of each use case.
- Simplified Management: Reduce the risks and complexity associated with manual passphrase handling.
- Enhanced User Experience: Seamlessly manage encryption with the option to delegate responsibility to Storj.
How It Works
- All Users: Can enable Storj-managed passphrases when creating a new project.
- Existing Projects: Will not be impacted, as this feature applies only to new projects.
- Choice and Control: Easily switch between Storj-managed and manually managed encryption for different projects as your requirements evolve.
Availability
Storj-managed passphrases are available today. Documentation is available at storj.dev, with step-by-step guidance and FAQs to help users get started.
Why It Matters
At Storj, we’ve always prioritized giving our users unmatched security and control. By default, Storj requires self-managed encryption, ensuring that our customers—not us—hold the keys to their data. This approach guarantees maximum privacy and security.
However, we’ve heard from many customers that managing encryption passphrases can be overly complex and, when not implemented correctly, can introduce higher risks such as loss of access to critical data. With this update, we’re addressing these concerns by introducing a flexible, user-controlled choice for passphrase management.
Importantly, we’ve designed this feature to avoid accidental choices—making it an explicit decision for users. Storj-managed passphrases are not the default, ensuring users remain in control of their security preferences while benefiting from easier encryption management if desired.
