A data encryption and file sharing framework among microservices-based edge nodes with blockchain

The evolution of cloud computing towards X-as-a-Service models and the adoption of microservices architecture have significantly matured the field. As these technologies advance, they bring challenges such as data consistency, transaction traceability, and efficient information processing, particularly in edge computing environments. This paper explores the integration of microservices architecture, edge computing, and blockchain technology to address these challenges, with a focus on secure file sharing. We present a framework that uses identity authentication and leverages Ethereum blockchain, IPFS, and HDFS for decentralized, tamper-resistant file sharing. Our implementation in the FsMbe system fetches data using the DHT of the distributed network after authentication by Ethereum and employs multi-round AES encryption for data sharing. Extensive experiments were conducted to evaluate our framework’s performance in various scenarios, including small data communication between microservices in edge groups and large file transfers between edge nodes in larger groups. The framework demonstrated stable data transfer performance, particularly for small payloads, even as the number of clients increased. This research contributes to secure and efficient data management in edge computing and microservice environments, providing a robust solution for decentralized file sharing with enhanced performance and security.