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Overview

Keep implements a pay-as-you-go model for decentralized storage using blockchain payments. Unlike traditional cloud storage with monthly subscriptions, users pay only for what they store and for how long.

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How It Works

1

Select Files

Choose one or more files to upload to decentralized storage
2

Choose Duration

Specify how long you want to store the files (minimum 7 days)
3

Get Cost Estimate

The system calculates the cost based on:
  • Total file size
  • Storage duration
  • Current network rates
4

Sign Transaction

Approve the payment with your Solana wallet
5

Onchain Deposit

A deposit is created on the Solana blockchain via the Keep smart contract
6

Storage Delegation

The server uses UCAN delegation to store your files on Storacha

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Cost Calculation

Storage costs are calculated using this formula: 
Cost (SOL) = (File Size in MB × Duration in Days × Base Rate) + Transaction Fee
The base rate is dynamically calculated to cover Storacha storage costs while keeping prices competitive.
You can estimate costs before uploading using the estimateStorageCost SDK method.

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Payment Flow

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Escrow Model

When you create a deposit:
  1. Funds are locked in the Keep smart contract
  2. Storage is provisioned on Storacha immediately
  3. Funds are released linearly over the storage duration to service providers
  4. No refunds after upload (storage is already provisioned)
This escrow model ensures:
  • Storage providers get paid
  • Users get guaranteed storage duration
  • No need for recurring payments

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Transaction Records

Every payment is recorded both:

Onchain

Permanent record on Solana blockchain with transaction signature

Database

Indexed in Keep’s database for quick lookup and history tracking

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Multi-Chain Future

Currently, Keep only supports payments in SOL on Solana. We’re working on adding:
  • Filecoin (FIL): Native payments on the Filecoin network
  • Base (ETH): Ethereum L2 payments for lower gas fees
  • Additional chains: Based on community demand
Multi-chain support means you’ll be able to pay for the same Storacha storage using different cryptocurrencies, choosing whichever chain you prefer.

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Benefits

For Users:
  • No credit card required
  • Pay only for what you use
  • Transparent, verifiable costs
  • No recurring subscriptions
For Developers:
  • Easy integration with crypto wallets
  • No payment processing fees
  • Instant settlement
  • Global accessibility

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Limitations

No refunds: Once files are uploaded, storage is provisioned and payments cannot be refunded. Make sure you’ve selected the correct duration before confirming.
  • Minimum storage duration: 7 days
  • Gas fees apply for each transaction
  • Requires sufficient wallet balance
  • Files expire after storage duration ends