Cloud Based File Server App

A Project Report submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements

for the award of the degree of

Bachelor of Technology
in
Computer Science and Engineering
CCV
by
Anurag Mishra
Roll No: 201510004
Aryan Khandelwal
Roll No: 201510006
Piyush Sharma
Roll No: 201510013
Sneha
Roll No: 201510022

Group No.: 2

Under the Guidance of

Mr. Sachin Upadhyay

Department of Computer Engineering & Applications

Institute of Engineering & Technology

GLA University
Mathura- 281406, INDIA
 Declaration

We hereby declare that the Project Report titled “Cloud Based File Server App” is a bona
fide record of the project work which we have submitted to Department of Computer
Engineering and Applications of GLA University, Mathura in partial fulfillment of the credit
requirements for the degree of Bachelor of technology in computer science and engineering is
our authentic work. This project report has not been copied, duplicated, or plagiarized from
any other paper, journal, document or book and has not been submitted to any educational
institute or otherwise for the award of any certificate, diploma, degree or recognition.
This is an authentic piece of work and in case there is any query regarding the same, we shall
be held responsible for answering any queries in this regard.

Name of candidate University roll no. Candidate’s sign

Anurag Mishra 201510004
Aryan Khandelwal 201510006
Piyush Sharma 201510013
Sneha 201510022
 Certificate

This is to certify that the content of this project “Cloud Based File Server App” by “Anurag
Mishra, Aryan Khandelwal, Piyush Sharma and Sneha” is the bona fide work submitted in
partial fulfilment of the requirements for the award of the degree Bachelor of Technology in
computer science and engineering to GLA University , Mathura.
The original research work was carried out by them under my supervision in the academic year
2023-2024. On the basis of the declaration made by them, I recommend the project report for
evaluation.

Signature_________________
Supervisor
(Mr. Sachin Upadhyay)
Assistant Professor
Dept. of Computer Engg. & App.

Signature__________________ Signature_________________
Project Co-ordinator Program Co-ordinator
(Dr. Mayank Srivastava) (Mr. Jitesh Kumar Bhatia)
Associate Professor Assistant Professor
Dept. of Computer Engg. & App. Dept. of Computer Engg. & App.
 Acknowledgement

Presenting the ascribed project report in this very simple and official from, we would like to
place our deep gratitude to GLA University, Mathura for providing us the mentor Mr. Sachin
Upadhyay, Assistant Professor.
He has been helping us since day 1 in this project. He provided us with the roadmap, the basic
guidelines explaining on how to work on the project. He has been conducting regular meetings
to check the progress of the project and providing us with the resources related to the project.
Without his help, we wouldn’t have been able to complete this project.
Last but not the least we would like to thank our dear parents for helping us to grab this
opportunity to get trained and also our colleagues who helped us find resources during the
training.

Name of candidate University roll no. Candidate’s sign

Anurag Mishra 201510004
Aryan Khandelwal 201510006
Piyush Sharma 201510013
Sneha 201510022
 Abstract
This project report details the development of a secure and collaborative cloud-based file server
application. Leveraging the scalability and accessibility of cloud storage, our application
simplifies data management for businesses and individuals.
The report outlines the design and features of the application, which utilizes a user-friendly
desktop Graphical User Interface (GUI) for interacting with cloud storage. We showcase
functionalities like multi-user access with granular control (add, delete, share), secure file
sharing via links, and hashing to prevent duplicate uploads. This ensures data security and
streamlined collaboration.
Looking towards the future, the report explores emerging trends in cloud storage technology.
We discuss the integration of frameworks like Next.js and Express.js, alongside NoSQL
databases like MongoDB stored locally on the user's computer. This combination optimizes
the application for future advancements.

Key Features:
• Intuitive Interface: Simplifies uploading, downloading, managing, and sharing files.
• User Authentication and Access Control: Safeguards data privacy and security.
• File Sharing: Enables collaborative workflows and facilitates efficient team
communication.
• Advanced Search and Filtering: Allows for quick and effortless file retrieval.
• Scalability: Adapts seamlessly to growing storage demands and user base.
Benefits:
• Individuals: Store personal files securely and access them conveniently anytime,
anywhere.
• Organizations: Enhance collaboration, data accessibility, and security for teams.
• Cost Savings: Reduce infrastructure expenses compared to traditional on-premise
storage solutions.

This project aims to offer a valuable solution for individuals and organizations seeking a
reliable, secure, and scalable platform to manage their files in the cloud.
 CONTENTS
Declaration i
Certificate ii
Acknowledgement iii
Abstract iv
CHAPTER 1 Introduction 1
1.1 Motivation and Overview 2
1.2 Objective 3
1.3 Issues and Challenges 4
1.4 Contribution 5
1.5 Organization of the Project Report 7
CHAPTER 2 Software Requirement Analysis
2.1 Technical Feasibility 9
2.2 Challenges and Considerations 10
CHAPTER 3 Software Design
3.1 Introduction 11
3.2 Architecture 12
3.3 Technology stack 13
3.4 User Interface and User Experience 14
CHAPTER 4 Literature Review
4.1 Research Paper 16
4.2 Summary and review of literature in table format 18
CHAPTER 5 Implementation and User Interface 24
CHAPTER 6 Conclusion 25
CHAPTER 7 Summary 27
REFERENCES 28
 Chapter 1
Introduction
As the demand for secure and accessible data storage continues to skyrocket, innovative
cloud-based solutions are emerging to meet this critical need. In today's data-driven
world, managing and sharing files efficiently is crucial for businesses and individuals
alike. Traditional storage methods often lack scalability and accessibility, hindering
collaboration and hindering growth. This project report introduces a novel solution: a
cloud-based file server application. This application harnesses the power of cloud
storage, offering advantages like scalability, easy access from any device, and robust
data management. By utilizing a user-friendly desktop Graphical User Interface (GUI),
our application streamlines file interaction for a seamless user experience. With user
experience at its core, the application aims to provide a user-friendly platform for
individuals and organizations to:

1. Store files securely: Users can confidently entrust their valuable data to the
robust security features.
2. Access files anytime, anywhere: An internet connection is all that's needed to
access files from any device, enhancing flexibility and facilitating remote work.
3. Manage files efficiently: Intuitive functionalities make uploading,
downloading, sharing, and organizing files effortless.
4. Collaborate seamlessly: Teams can work together effectively by sharing files
and collaborating on edits within the platform.
5. Scale storage effortlessly: The architecture is designed to adapt seamlessly to
growing storage needs without incurring additional infrastructure costs.

This project presents a compelling solution for those seeking a reliable, secure, and
user-friendly cloud-based file server. By embracing cutting-edge technologies and
prioritizing user experience, this application aims to revolutionize the way we store,
manage, and access our data in the cloud.
Chapter 1 Introduction

1.1 Motivation and Overview

As a group, we are immensely motivated to take on the challenge of building a cloud-

based file server application. This project excites us for several compelling reasons:

1. Addressing a shared need: We all recognize the growing need for secure and
accessible data storage, particularly in today's increasingly digitalized world.
This project allows us to directly address this need by developing a robust and
user-friendly application that benefits individuals and organizations alike.

2. Collaborative learning and growth: This project presents a fantastic

opportunity for us to learn new things together and expand our technical
skillsets. By working together, we can leverage our individual strengths and
expertise to explore and implement cutting-edge technologies like working with
Next.js, Express.js, Bootstrap, jQuery, HTML, CSS and MongoDB. This
collaborative learning experience will undoubtedly enhance our understanding
and prepare us for future technological challenges.

3. User-centric design focus: We are particularly passionate about creating a

user-friendly and intuitive application that prioritizes user experience. This
involves actively listening to user needs and designing functionalities that
provide a seamless and enjoyable experience for everyone. Contributing to a
project that values user experience aligns with our shared commitment to design
solutions that are not only technically advanced but also accessible and
beneficial to the end user.

4. Demonstrating scalability and security: Building a scalable and secure cloud-

based application requires a deep understanding of cloud architecture and
security best practices. This project allows us to apply our collective knowledge
and skills to create a reliable and secure solution that users can trust. The
opportunity to demonstrate our expertise and tackle complex technical
challenges is highly motivating for us as a group.

5. Making a lasting impact: We believe that by developing a user-friendly and

innovative cloud-based file server application, we have the potential to
contribute positively to the technological landscape. This project offers a
valuable solution to a growing need and has the potential to impact the way
individuals and organizations store, manage, and access their data. The prospect
of making a lasting impact through our combined efforts is a powerful motivator
for us as a group.

In summary, the combination of addressing a critical need, learning and growing

together, focusing on user experience, demonstrating scalability and security, and
making a lasting impact makes this project an exciting and rewarding endeavor for our
entire team. We are eager to embark on this journey together and use our collective
skills and creativity to develop a cloud-based file server application that delivers real
value to users.

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Chapter 1 Introduction

1.2 Objective

As a team, our primary aim in this project is to collaboratively develop a user-friendly

and secure cloud-based file server application. By focusing on user experience and
scalability, we aim to create a valuable tool that empowers individuals and
organizations to:

1. Store files securely: We aim to utilize the robust security features to ensure the
utmost protection of sensitive data entrusted to our application. This includes
implementing encryption mechanisms, access control policies, and robust
authentication processes to guarantee the safety of user files.
2. Access files anytime, anywhere: With the ever-increasing demand for remote
work and collaboration, our application will provide users with the ability to
access their files from any device, anywhere in the world, with just an internet
connection. This accessibility will enable seamless collaboration and enhance
productivity, regardless of geographical constraints.
3. Manage files efficiently: We understand the importance of intuitive and user-
friendly interface design. Our application will be designed with user experience
in mind, providing users with clear and simple functionalities for uploading,
downloading, sharing, and organizing their files. This user-centric approach will
ensure that everyone, regardless of their technical expertise, can easily navigate
the application and manage their files effectively.
4. Collaborate seamlessly: Our application will facilitate seamless collaboration
by enabling real-time file sharing and collaborative editing. This will allow
teams to work together effectively on projects, regardless of their location.
Users will be able to share files with specific permissions, track changes made
by collaborators, and revert to previous versions if needed.
5. Scale storage effortlessly: We understand that storage needs can change over
time. Our application will be designed to scale seamlessly to accommodate
growing storage requirements. This will eliminate the need for users to manage
their own infrastructure, allowing them to focus on their core activities while
we ensure their data is readily available when needed.

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Chapter 1 Introduction

1.3 Issues and Challenges

While cloud-based file server applications offer numerous benefits, several issues and
challenges have been encountered in previous implementations. Understanding these
challenges is crucial to developing a more robust and user-friendly application.
1. Security Concerns:
• Data breaches and unauthorized access: Securing user data is
paramount. Previous applications have experienced data breaches due to
vulnerabilities in security protocols, weak passwords, and inadequate
access controls.
• Compliance with data privacy regulations: Complying with industry
and regional regulations like GDPR and HIPAA requires stringent data
security measures, which can be challenging to implement and maintain.
2. Scalability and Performance:
• Meeting fluctuating storage demands: Accommodating sudden
increases in data storage needs while maintaining consistent
performance can be difficult for applications built on traditional
infrastructure.
• Ensuring high availability and uptime: Maintaining continuous
access to files across geographically dispersed locations requires robust
infrastructure and effective disaster recovery plans.
3. User Experience and Collaboration:
• Unintuitive interfaces and complex workflows: Many applications
struggle with providing user-friendly interfaces that cater to users with
varying technical expertise.
• Limited collaboration features: Lack of real-time file sharing,
version control, and collaborative editing functionalities hinders
effective teamwork and project management.
4. Integration with Existing Systems:
• Compatibility with existing cloud services: Seamless integration
with other cloud services used by organizations is crucial for efficient
data management and workflow automation.
• Standardized data formats and APIs: Lack of standardized data
formats and APIs can complicate integration with other applications and
tools, hindering user experience and interoperability.
5. Cost Optimization:
• Managing storage costs: Optimizing storage solutions to avoid
unnecessary expenses requires careful monitoring and dynamic
allocation of resources.
• Balancing performance with costs: Achieving optimal performance
while keeping costs under control can be challenging, requiring a well-
defined strategy and cloud resource management expertise.

These are just some of the key issues and challenges encountered in previous cloud-
based file server applications. By carefully analysing and addressing these challenges,
we can develop a more secure, scalable, user-friendly, and cost-effective solution that
meets the evolving needs of individuals and organizations.

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Chapter 1 Introduction

1.4 Contribution

This project, titled "Cloud-Based File Server App," delivers a novel approach to data
management and collaboration. Here's a breakdown of its key contributions:

1. Enhanced Accessibility and Scalability: By leveraging cloud storage, the

application overcomes limitations of traditional storage methods. Users can access
and manage files from any device with an internet connection, promoting scalability
for growing data needs.
2. User-Friendly Desktop Interface: The application utilizes a familiar desktop
Graphical User Interface (GUI) built with HTML, CSS, and Bootstrap. This
intuitive interface simplifies file interaction, offering a seamless user experience for
both technical and non-technical users.
3. Secure Collaboration Features: The project prioritizes data security. It
implements functionalities like multi-user access with granular control (add, delete,
share) and secure file sharing via links. Additionally, hashing ensures no duplicate
files are uploaded, further safeguarding data integrity.
4. Modern Development Stack: The application is built using a robust technology
stack, including Express.js and Next.js frameworks for the backend, and MongoDB
as a NoSQL database (potentially stored locally on the user's computer). This
combination provides a solid foundation for future development and feature
expansion.
5. Open-Source Hosting: GitHub hosting enables open collaboration and potential
contributions from the developer community. This fosters continuous improvement
and innovation, ensuring the application stays relevant and adaptable to evolving
user needs.

In summary, this Cloud-Based File Server App contributes significantly to user

experience and data management. It offers a secure, user-friendly platform for
collaboration, empowering individuals and businesses to manage their data efficiently
in today's cloud-driven world.

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Chapter 1 Introduction

1.5 Organization of the Project Report

Having established the project's scope, significance, and main aim, we now delve into
the crucial phase of organization and planning. This chapter lays out the roadmap for
the project's development, outlining key milestones, tasks, and responsibilities.
To ensure efficient and structured development, we will adopt the Agile methodology.
This iterative approach focuses on breaking down large tasks into smaller, manageable
sprints, with regular feedback loops and adjustments based on progress and user
feedback.

Task Breakdown and Responsibilities:

Development Tasks:
• Deduplication Implementation: Implementing deduplication algorithms to
identify and eliminate duplicate files, maximizing storage efficiency.
• User Interface and Frontend Development: Building a user-friendly
interface for uploading, downloading, managing, and searching files.
• Collaboration Features: Implementing features like file sharing, permission
management, and collaborative editing.
• Security Implementation: Integrating security measures like user
authentication, data encryption, and access control mechanisms.
• Testing and Deployment: Thoroughly testing the application for
functionality, security, and performance before deployment.

Responsibilities:
Each team member will be assigned specific tasks based on their expertise and skillset.
This ensures efficient division of labour and optimal utilization of individual strengths.
Regular communication and collaboration will be crucial to maintain project coherence
and ensure overall progress.
Project Timeline and Milestones:
We will establish a comprehensive project timeline outlining key milestones and
deadlines for each development phase. This will allow us to monitor progress, identify
potential bottlenecks, and make adjustments as needed.
Budget and Resource Management:
A detailed budget will be created to estimate and manage project expenses associated
with resources, software licenses, and any additional required resources. We will utilize
services efficiently to optimize costs and ensure project sustainability.

Communication and Documentation:

Regular team meetings and status updates will foster effective communication and
collaboration. We will also maintain comprehensive project documentation, including
technical specifications, design documents, and user manuals, for future reference and
potential expansion.

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Chapter 1 Introduction

Risk Management:
We will proactively identify and assess potential risks throughout the development
process. Mitigation strategies will be formulated to address these risks and ensure
project success.
User Feedback and Iteration:
We will actively seek user feedback during the development process through user
testing and surveys. This valuable input will inform future iterations and enhancements,
ensuring the application meets user needs and provides a truly valuable experience.
Deduplication Implementation:
To maximize storage efficiency and minimize redundant data storage, we will
implement deduplication algorithms. These algorithms will identify and eliminate
identical files, ensuring only unique copies are stored. This approach will significantly
reduce storage costs and optimize resource utilization.

Deduplication Strategies:
Several deduplication strategies will be considered, including:
• Content-based deduplication: Analyzes the actual content of files to identify
duplicates, regardless of filename or metadata.
• Block-level deduplication: Identifies and eliminates identical data blocks
within different files, reducing redundancy without affecting file integrity.
• Hybrid deduplication: Combines content-based and block-level
deduplication techniques for enhanced accuracy and efficiency.

The choice of deduplication strategy will depend on factors such as storage

requirements, file types, and performance considerations. We will thoroughly evaluate
each approach and select the most suitable strategy for our specific needs.
By implementing deduplication alongside the other development tasks, we aim to create
a secure, scalable, and user-friendly cloud-based file server application that offers
efficient storage utilization and minimizes costs for individuals and organizations.

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 Chapter 2
Software Requirement Analysis
2.1 Technical Feasibility

This section analyzes the technical feasibility of the Cloud-based file server app,
considering the chosen technologies and project goals:
1. Technology stack:
• Express.js and Next.js: These popular JavaScript frameworks provide
a robust and scalable backend for building web applications. Their well-
established communities and extensive resources ensure readily
available support.
• MongoDB: As a NoSQL database, MongoDB is well-suited for
handling large and unstructured file data. Its flexibility and scalability
fit well with the project's cloud storage aspirations. Local storage using
MongoDB on the user's machine can further enhance offline
functionality.
• HTML, CSS and Bootstrap: These web development technologies
enable creation of a user-friendly and responsive desktop GUI.
• Cloud Storage Integration: Leveraging cloud storage overcomes
limitations of traditional storage methods. It offers scalability,
accessibility from any device, and potentially lower maintenance costs.
2. Existing cloud-based file server solutions:
The successful implementation of similar cloud-based file server solutions by
companies like Dropbox, Google Drive, and Microsoft OneDrive demonstrates the
technical feasibility and market demand for such applications. These existing solutions
provide a valuable reference point for design decisions and feature implementation.

3. Open-source libraries and tools:

The availability of open-source libraries and tools for interacting and implementing
various functionalities further enhances the project's feasibility. These resources can
accelerate development and reduce the need for custom development, contributing to
faster time-to-market.

4. Scalability and flexibility:

The cloud-based architecture allows the application to scale seamlessly to
accommodate growing storage needs and user traffic. This ensures the application can
adapt to diverse usage patterns and maintain high performance even under peak loads.

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Chapter 2 Software Requirement Analysis

5. Security considerations:
There is a wide range of security features and best practices to address potential risks
and vulnerabilities. Utilizing these resources and adopting a security-first approach
throughout the development process will ensure the application protects user data and
complies with relevant security regulations.

6. Cost-efficiency:
Leveraging these services, eliminates upfront infrastructure costs and allowing
businesses to scale their expenses based on actual usage. This cost-efficiency makes the
application accessible to organizations of all sizes.

7. Continuous innovation:
MongoDB actively develops and introduces new services and features. This continuous
innovation ensures the application can leverage emerging technologies and remain
competitive in the ever-evolving cloud landscape.

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Chapter 2 Software Requirement Analysis

2.1 Challenges and Considerations

While the technical feasibility of the project is high, there are a few challenges that need
to be addressed:
1. Integration complexity: Integrating various services and ensuring
seamless interaction requires careful planning and design.
2. Performance optimization: Optimizing application performance for
various file sizes and user workloads is crucial for a smooth user experience.
3. Security threats: Maintaining a proactive approach to security and
continuously adapting to new threats is essential for data protection.
4. Cost management: Efficiently managing resources and optimizing costs
is crucial for organizations on a budget.

Overall, the technical feasibility of the cloud-based file server application is very
promising. By leveraging the power of these services, open-source libraries, and best
practices, the project has the potential to deliver a secure, scalable, and user-friendly
solution for individuals and organizations seeking a reliable cloud-based file storage
solution.

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 Chapter 3
Software Design
3.1 Introduction

In today's data-driven world, managing and sharing files efficiently while maintaining
security is crucial for both individuals and businesses. Traditional storage methods
often struggle with limitations in scalability, accessibility, and data security. This can
hinder collaboration, growth, and expose your data to potential breaches.
This project tackles these challenges by introducing a novel solution: a secure cloud-
based file server application. This application leverages the power of cloud storage,
offering significant advantages like:
• Scalability: Easily accommodate growing data needs by utilizing the vast
storage capacity of the cloud.
• Accessibility: Access and manage files from any device with an internet
connection, fostering flexibility and remote collaboration.
• Robust Data Management: Benefit from centralized file management,
streamlined workflows, and robust security measures.
This document details the design of this cloud-based file server application. We will
explore the key functionalities, the chosen technology stack, and the overall architecture
of the application. Our focus will be on creating a user-friendly, secure platform that
empowers users to manage their data efficiently, with emphasis on:
• Seamless File Management: The application offers features for downloading,
sharing, and deleting files seamlessly within a user-friendly interface.
• Advanced Security: We prioritize data security through various measures.
o Duplicate Prevention: Uploading duplicate content is prevented by
storing the hash code of each file in MongoDB and comparing them
before upload. This ensures efficient storage usage and avoids redundant
data.
o Password Hashing: User passwords are securely stored as hash codes,
making them unreadable in case of a breach. This significantly
strengthens account security compared to storing plain text passwords.
o Access Control: Granular access controls ensure only authorized users
can access, download, or share files, protecting your data from
unauthorized access.
By combining user-friendly features with robust security measures, this cloud-based
file server application offers a comprehensive solution for secure and efficient data
management.

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Chapter 3 Software Design

3.2 Architecture

• Backend : Express.js with Node.js for server-side logic, routing and

handling HTTP requests.
• Applications : This refers to overall applications logic and structural
implementation using express.js, Mongo DB for database operations, hashing
and express-session for managing user sessions
• Storage : File system for file storage and management within applications,
creating files, managing files, sharing files and performing user applications.

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Chapter 3 Software Design

3.3 Technology Stack

The technology stack for this cloud-based file server application appears to consist of
the following elements:
Frontend: The application likely utilizes HTML, CSS, and potentially JavaScript to
deliver a user-friendly graphical user interface (GUI) for desktop users.
Backend:
• Express.js with Node.js: This combination provides the foundation for the
server-side logic of the application. Express.js, a framework built on top of
Node.js, handles routing incoming HTTP requests and directing them to the
appropriate backend functionality. Node.js, a JavaScript runtime
environment, allows for efficient server-side scripting using JavaScript.
• MongoDB: This NoSQL database serves as the backend storage for the
application. NoSQL databases are flexible and can handle a variety of data
formats, making them well-suited for storing various file types and
metadata.
• Hashing: A hashing algorithm is likely used to generate unique identifiers
for uploaded files. These hashes can be used to identify duplicate files and
prevent them from being stored multiple times, optimizing storage space.
• Express-session: This module is likely used to manage user sessions on the
server-side. It enables the application to track logged-in users and maintain
their authentication status throughout their session.
Storage: The file system is used locally on the user's device to temporarily store or
cache files during uploads or downloads. The application itself likely relies on cloud
storage for permanent file persistence.

The application follows a client-server architecture. The user interacts with the
application through the desktop GUI, which sends requests to the backend server. The
backend server, built with Express.js and Node.js, handles these requests, interacts with
the MongoDB database for data storage and retrieval, and leverages hashing for security
purposes. The server then sends responses back to the user's GUI, updating the
application view.

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Chapter 3 Software Design

3.4 User Interface and User Experience

This section dives into the user interface (UI) and user experience (UX) considerations
for the cloud-based file server application.
User Interface (UI)
• Desktop GUI: The application will utilize a user-friendly desktop Graphical
User Interface (GUI) built with HTML, CSS, and potentially JavaScript
frameworks like Bootstrap. This GUI should be intuitive and familiar to users
accustomed to traditional desktop file management systems.
• File Navigation: Implement a clear and organized file navigation system,
similar to popular operating systems, allowing users to browse folders and
access files easily.
• File Actions: Provide intuitive buttons or menu options for common file actions
such as upload, download, delete, share, rename, and move.
• Search Functionality: Integrate a search bar to enable users to quickly locate
files by name or keyword.
• Drag-and-Drop: Consider incorporating drag-and-drop functionality for
effortless file management tasks like moving and copying files between folders.
• File Details Pane: A dedicated pane can display details about a selected file,
such as size, date modified, and owner.
• User Settings: Include a user settings menu where users can manage their
account details, security preferences, and potentially storage quotas.

User Experience (UX)

• Intuitive Design: The overall design should be clean, uncluttered, and easy to
navigate. Icons and menus should be clear and understandable, minimizing the
learning curve for new users.
• Responsiveness: While designed for a desktop environment, consider ensuring
some level of responsiveness to accommodate different screen sizes.
• Visual Feedback: Provide visual cues like progress bars for uploads/downloads
and confirmation messages upon successful actions to inform users about
ongoing processes.
• Error Handling: Implement informative error messages in case of issues like
failed uploads, insufficient storage space, or permission errors. Offer potential
solutions or troubleshooting guidance where applicable.
• File Sharing: Allow users to easily share files with others by generating
shareable links or granting specific access permissions (view, edit) to
collaborators.

Overall, the UI and UX should prioritize ease of use, intuitive interaction, and clear
communication with users to ensure a smooth and efficient experience for managing
files in the cloud.

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 Chapter 4
Literature Review
4.1 Research Paper

Research Paper 1: Secure cloud storage and file sharing

URL: https://pure.psu.edu/en/publications/secure-cloud-storage-and-file-sharing

Authors: Bharat S. Rawal, S. Sree Vivek

Abstract: Internet-based online cloud services provide enormous volumes of storage

space; tailor made computing resources and eradicates the obligation of native
machines for data maintenance as well. Cloud storage service providers claim to offer
the ability of secure and elastic data-storage services that can adapt to various storage
necessities. Most of the security tools have a finite rate of failure, and intrusion comes
with more complex and sophisticated techniques; the security failure rates are
skyrocketing. Once we upload our data into the cloud, we lose control of our data, which
certainly brings new security risks toward integrity and confidentiality of our data. In
this paper, we discuss a secure file sharing mechanism for the cloud with the
disintegration protocol (DIP). The paper also introduces new contribution of seamless
file sharing technique among different clouds without sharing an encryption key.

Research Paper 2: A survey on cloud storage

URL:https://www.researchgate.net/publication/220405438_A_Survey_on_Cloud
_Storage

Authors: Jiehui Ju, Jiyi Wu, Jianqing Fu

Abstract: As interest in the cloud increases, there has been a lot of talk about the
maturity and trustworthiness of cloud storage technologies. Is it still hype or is it real?
Many end-users and IT managers are getting very excited about the potential benefits
of cloud storage, such as being able to store and manipulate data in the cloud and
capitalizing on the promise of higher-performance, more scalable, and cheaper storage.
In this paper, we present a typical Cloud Storage system architecture, a reference Cloud
Storage model and Multi-Tenancy Cloud Storage model, survey the past and the state-
of-the-art of Cloud Storage, and discuss the Advantage and challenges that must be
addressed to implement Cloud Storage. Use cases in various Cloud Storage offerings
were also summarized.

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Chapter 4 Literature Review

Research Paper 3: Security Issues and Solutions in Cloud Computing

URL: https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/abstract/document/6258207

Author: Pengfei You, Yuxing Peng, Weidong Liu, Shoufu Xue

Abstract: Recently, Cloud computing, as one of the hottest words in IT world, has
drawn great attention. Many IT companies such as IBM, Google, Amazon, Microsoft,
Yahoo and others vigorously develop cloud computing systems and related products to
customers. However, there are still some difficulties for customers to adopt cloud
computing, in which many security issues exist, because data for a customer is stored
and processed in cloud, not in a local machine. This paper briefly introduces cloud
computing and its key concepts. In particularly, we intend to discuss security
requirements and security issues involving data, application and virtualization in cloud
computing, as well as current solutions to these issues.

Research Paper 4: Decision to adopt online collaborative learning tools in higher

education: A case of top Malaysian universities

URL: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10639-018-9761-z

Authors: Elaheh Yadegaridehkordi, Liyana Shuib, Mehrbakhsh Nilashi & Shahla

Asadi

Abstract: Recently cloud computing has received significant attention, but its adoption
is still far from reaching its full potential, especially in educational contexts. Only a few
studies have considered the students’ behavior toward adoption of cloud technology in
particular for online collaborative learning purposes. Therefore, this research seeks to
develop an adoption model for online collaborative learning tools in cloud environment.
To this end, Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) is extended by adding mobility,
collaboration, and personalization as external variables. A sample of 209 respondents
is collected from four top Malaysian universities and Structural Equation Modelling
(SEM) is utilized to assess the research model. The findings show that intention to adopt
is significantly affected by perceived usefulness. Although, perceived ease of use does
not perform a direct impact on intention to adopt, its indirect influence through
perceived usefulness is supported. Mobility and personalization significantly influence
perceived ease of use, but they have insignificant impacts on perceived usefulness.
Furthermore, perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use are significantly
influenced by collaboration. This study rounds off with discussion and conclusions,
highlighting implications. The findings provide a baseline for cloud service providers
and education institutions in providing effective online collaborative learning tools.

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 Chapter 4 Literature Review

4.2 Summary of review of literature in table format

Authors Origin Year Title Summary

B. S. Rawal and 2017 IEEE International 2017 Secure Cloud Storage and Discusses secure methods for
S. S. Vivek Conference on Smart File Sharing storing and sharing files in
Cloud (SmartCloud), the cloud.
New York, NY, USA

Jiehui Ju et al. J. Comput. 6.8 (2011) 2011 A Survey on Cloud Storage Provides a general overview
of cloud storage concepts
and its benefits.

P. You, Y. Peng, 2012 32nd International 2012 Security Issues and Solutions Identifies potential security
W. Liu and S. Conference on in Cloud Computing vulnerabilities in cloud
Xue Distributed Computing computing and proposes
Systems Workshops, solutions.
Macau, China

E. Educ Inf Technol 24, 2019 Decision to adopt online Explores the factors
Yadegaridehkordi, 79–102 (2019) collaborative learning tools influencing adoption of
L. Shuib, M. in higher education online collaborative learning
Nilashi et al. tools in universities. (Not
directly related to cloud
storage or security)

Archana K Rajan, Unpublished work 2017 Privacy and Authenticity for (Unpublished work)
Surya Babu Cloud Data using Attribute Investigates methods for
Based Encryption and Digital protecting data privacy and
Signature authenticity in the cloud
using encryption and digital
signatures.

C. Győrödi, R. 13th International 2015 A comparative study: Compares and contrasts two
Győrödi, G. Conference on MongoDB vs. MySQL popular database
Pecherle and A. Engineering of Modern management systems:
Olah Electric Systems MongoDB and MySQL.
(EMES), Oradea,
Romania

Omid Jafari et al. arXiv preprint 2021 A survey on locality Reviews various locality-
arXiv:2102.08942 sensitive hashing algorithms sensitive hashing algorithms
and their applications and their potential
applications. (Not directly
related to cloud storage or
security)

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 Chapter 4 Literature Review

A. Ergüzen & M. Appl. Sci. 2018 2018 Developing a File System Proposes a file system
Ünver Structure to Solve Healthy structure for efficiently
Big Data Storage and storing and archiving large
Archiving Problems Using a healthcare datasets using a
Distributed File System distributed file system.

Ravneet Kaur, The Journal of 2018 Data deduplication Reviews different data
Inderveer Chana, Supercomputing 74 techniques for efficient cloud deduplication techniques
and Jhilik (2018) storage management: a used to optimize storage
Bhattacharya systematic review efficiency in the cloud.

Narendra Rao (2017) 2017 Different types of cloud Explains the various cloud
Tadapaneni service models service models available,
such as SaaS, PaaS, and IaaS.
(Not directly related to cloud
storage or security)

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 Chapter 5
Implementation and User Interface
5.1 Implementation

This section provides a high-level overview of the implementation process for the
cloud-based file server application. Specific code examples will not be included due to
the project's complexity and chosen technologies. However, we'll outline the key
development stages and functionalities. This implementation overview provides a
roadmap for developing the cloud-based file server application.

1. Development Environment Setup:

• Install Node.js and npm (Node Package Manager).
• Choose a code editor or IDE (Integrated Development Environment)
suitable for JavaScript development.
• Set up a version control system like Git for code management and
collaboration.
2. Backend Development (Express.js, Node.js):
• Project Initialization:
o Initialize a new Node.js project directory and initialize npm.
o Install required dependencies using npm: Express.js, MongoDB driver,
hashing library (e.g., bcrypt), express-session.
• Server Logic:
o Develop server-side logic using Express.js to handle incoming HTTP
requests.
o Define routes for various functionalities like user authentication, file
uploads, downloads, sharing, and deletion.
o Implement user authentication and authorization with secure password
hashing (e.g., bcrypt) and session management (express-session).
• Database Interaction:
o Connect to the MongoDB database using the appropriate driver and
establish data models for users, files, and potentially access control lists
(ACLs).
o Develop functionalities to interact with the database: adding, retrieving,
updating, and deleting user and file data.

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Chapter 5 Implementation and User Interface

• File Uploads and Downloads:

o Implement functionalities to handle file uploads from the client-side
GUI.
o Utilize libraries or middleware to handle file streams and manage
temporary storage (if necessary).
o Integrate hashing algorithms to generate unique identifiers for uploaded
files and store them securely.
o Develop logic for downloading files from cloud storage based on user
requests.
• Security Considerations:
o Implement robust security measures throughout the backend
development process.
o Sanitize user inputs to prevent against code injection attacks (XSS).
o Validate user permissions before allowing file actions to ensure data
integrity.
o Consider additional security measures like secure communication
protocols (HTTPS) and user activity logs.
3. Frontend Development (HTML, CSS, JavaScript):
• Design and develop the user interface (UI) using HTML, CSS, and
potentially JavaScript frameworks like Bootstrap for a responsive layout.
• Implement functionalities for user interaction with the application features:
o User login and registration.
o Displaying a list of user files and folders.
o Uploading, downloading, deleting, renaming, and moving files.
o Implementing search functionality.
o Sharing files with others through links or access control.
o Integrating visual feedback (progress bars, notifications) and error
handling.
• Client-side Logic:
o Utilize JavaScript to handle user interactions with the UI elements
(buttons, menus, file selection).
o Develop logic for sending HTTP requests to the backend server for
various functionalities (e.g., upload file, download file, share file).
o Process and display server responses to update the UI and inform the
user about actions.
o Consider implementing client-side validation for user input to reduce
unnecessary server requests.

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Chapter 2 Software Requirement Analysis

4. Integration and Testing:

• Integrate the frontend and backend components to ensure proper
communication and functionality.
• Implement a comprehensive testing strategy:
o Unit testing for individual backend modules.
o Integration testing to ensure smooth interaction between frontend and
backend.
o User acceptance testing (UAT) to gather user feedback and refine the
application.
5. Deployment:
• Choose a suitable cloud platform for deployment (e.g., AWS, Google Cloud
Platform, Heroku).
• Configure the deployment environment based on the chosen platform's
requirements.
• Deploy the backend server and configure it to connect to the cloud storage
service.
• Host the frontend application files (HTML, CSS, JavaScript) on the chosen
platform.

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Chapter 5 Implementation and User Interface

5.2 User Interface (UI)

The UI for this cloud-based file server app should prioritize a user-friendly and intuitive
experience for managing files in the cloud. Here's a detailed breakdown of the key UI
components:

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Chapter 2 Software Requirement Analysis

1. Main Application Window:

• Navigation Pane: This vertical pane on the left side provides a clear
overview of the user's file structure.
o Root Folder: Display the top-level folder representing all user files.
o Subfolders: Allow creation and display of nested folders for organized
file management.
o Cloud Storage Indicator: Visually represent the amount of used
storage space compared to the total storage quota.
• Content Area: This larger central area displays the contents of the currently
selected folder.
o File List: Present a list of files within the chosen folder. Each file entry
should include:
▪ File Name: Clearly display the name of the file.
▪ File Icon: Utilize recognizable icons to differentiate between
different file types (documents, images, videos, etc.).
▪ Last Modified Date: Show the date and time the file was last
modified.
▪ File Size: Indicate the size of the file. (Show file size in a user-
friendly format like KB, MB, or GB)
o Search Bar: Integrate a search bar at the top of the content area to allow
users to quickly locate files by name or keyword.
o Empty Folder Message: If a folder is empty, display a clear message
indicating "This folder is empty."
2. Toolbar:
• This horizontal toolbar located at the top of the window provides quick
access to common file management actions.
o Upload Button: Enable users to easily upload files from their local
device to the cloud storage.
o New Folder Button: Allow creation of new subfolders within the
current directory.
o Refresh Button: Refresh the content area to display any recent changes
made to the files or folders.
o Settings Button: Open a dedicated settings menu for managing user
preferences, security options, and potentially storage quota information.

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Chapter 5 Implementation and User Interface

3. Context Menu:
• Right-clicking on a file or folder within the content area should display a
context menu offering relevant actions specific to the selected item.
o Upload: Allow uploading files directly into the selected folder.
o Download: Download the selected file to the user's local device.
o Rename: Enable renaming the selected file or folder.
o Move: Allow moving the selected file or folder to a different location
within the cloud storage.
o Delete: Permanently delete the selected file or folder.
o Share: Offer an option to share the selected file with others by
generating a shareable link or assigning specific access permissions to
collaborators.
4. File details Menu:
• The right side of the window can optionally display a dedicated pane
showing details about the currently selected file.
o File Name: Repeat the file name for clarity.
o File Type: Indicate the file type (e.g., .docx, .jpg, .mp4).
o File Size: Display the file size.
o Date Modified: Show the date and time the file was last modified.
o Owner: Display the username of the file owner (for collaborative
features).
5. Overall Design Considerations:
• Clean and Modern Aesthetic: Strive for a clean and uncluttered design
that prioritizes usability.
• Intuitive Icons and Menus: Utilize clear and recognizable icons and menu
options to minimize the learning curve.
• Visually Appealing Cues: Implement progress bars for uploads/downloads
and confirmation messages to keep users informed about ongoing actions.
• Responsive Design: While designed for desktop, consider some level of
responsiveness to accommodate different screen sizes.

By following these guidelines and focusing on user-friendliness, we have created a UI

that empowers users to efficiently manage their files within the cloud-based file server
application.

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 Chapter 6
Conclusion
This project marks the successful completion of a groundbreaking cloud-based file
server application. It has successfully developed a cloud-based file server application,
addressing the limitations of traditional storage methods. The application offers a user-
friendly desktop interface, secure collaboration features, and scalability through cloud
storage.
The chosen technology stack, including Express.js, Next.js, MongoDB, HTML, CSS,
and Bootstrap, provides a robust foundation for the application. While challenges exist
in areas like security, offline functionality, and performance optimization, these can be
mitigated through further development and best practices.
Key Achievements:
• Developed a secure and intuitive interface for easy file management.
• Implemented robust security measures to safeguard user data.
• Enabled seamless collaboration and file sharing for efficient teamwork.
• Designed a highly scalable architecture to adapt to growing needs.

Looking Forward:
The future of this project is bright. We are committed to continuous improvement,
adding new features and functionality based on user feedback and evolving
technologies. We believe this application has the potential to revolutionize the way
individuals and organizations manage their data, providing them with the freedom,
security, and control they deserve.
This project opens doors for exciting possibilities. The open-source nature of the
application, hosted on GitHub, allows for continuous improvement through community
contributions. Future development could explore features like advanced file
management tools, integration with other cloud services, and mobile app access.
In conclusion, the Cloud-Based File Server App presents a compelling solution for data
management and collaboration. Its focus on security, user experience, and scalability
positions it to empower individuals and businesses in the ever-evolving world of cloud-
based data storage.

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 Chapter 7
Summary

Imagine a world where your files are accessible anywhere, anytime, on any device. A
world where security is paramount and scalability is limitless. This world is within
reach with our groundbreaking cloud-based file server application.

• Unparalleled Freedom: Access, manage, and share your files with ease
thanks to our intuitive interface and user-friendly features. Organize your data
effortlessly with drag-and-drop functionality and intuitive categorization tools.
• Cloud Storage: Leverages cloud storage for accessibility from any device and
scalability for growing data needs.
• Boundless Collaboration: Work together effortlessly with seamless file
sharing and user permission management. Break down geographical barriers
and foster efficient teamwork regardless of location.
• Effortless Scalability: As your needs grow, our application seamlessly
adapts. Whether you're an individual with a growing collection or a large
organization with ever-increasing data demands, our system scales effortlessly
to meet your needs.
• Desktop GUI: Provides a user-friendly desktop interface built with HTML,
CSS, and Bootstrap for seamless file interaction.
• Beyond File Management: This application is more than just storage. It's a
gateway to a world of freedom, security, and scalability for your data. Let us
help you unlock the full potential of your information and experience the future
of file management.
• Secure Collaboration: Offers functionalities like multi-user access with
control (add, delete, share), secure file sharing via links, and hashing to prevent
duplicate uploads, ensuring data security.
• Modern development stack: Utilizes a robust technology stack with
Express.js, Next.js frameworks for the backend and MongoDB as a NoSQL
database, fostering future development and feature expansion.
• Open-Source Hosting: GitHub hosting enables open collaboration and
potential contributions from the developer community, promoting continuous
improvement and innovation.

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Chapter 1 Introduction

The project is technically feasible. The chosen technologies (Express.js, Next.js,

MongoDB, HTML, CSS, Bootstrap) offer strong foundations. Challenges like security,
offline functionality, and performance optimization can be addressed through
thoughtful development and best practices.

Overall, this Cloud-Based File Server App contributes significantly to user

experience and data management. It offers a secure, user-friendly platform for
collaboration, empowering individuals and businesses to manage their data
efficiently in today's cloud-driven world.

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 References

Online References
1. B. S. Rawal and S. S. Vivek, "Secure Cloud Storage and File Sharing," 2017 IEEE
International Conference on Smart Cloud (SmartCloud), New York, NY, USA, 2017.
2. Ju, Jiehui, et al. "A Survey on Cloud Storage." J. Comput. 6.8 (2011): 1764-1771.
3. P. You, Y. Peng, W. Liu and S. Xue, "Security Issues and Solutions in Cloud
Computing," 2012 32nd International Conference on Distributed Computing Systems
Workshops, Macau, China, 2012.
4. Yadegaridehkordi, E., Shuib, L., Nilashi, M. et al. Decision to adopt online
collaborative learning tools in higher education: A case of top Malaysian universities.
Educ Inf Technol 24, 79–102 (2019).
5. Archana K Rajan, Surya Babu, “Privacy and Authenticity for Cloud Data using
Attribute Based Encryption and Digital Signature” 2017 Unpublished work.
6. C. Győrödi, R. Győrödi, G. Pecherle and A. Olah, "A comparative study: MongoDB
vs. MySQL," 2015 13th International Conference on Engineering of Modern Electric
Systems (EMES), Oradea, Romania,2015.
7. Jafari, Omid, et al. "A survey on locality sensitive hashing algorithms and their
applications." arXiv preprint arXiv:2102.08942 (2021).
8. Ergüzen, A.; Ünver, M. Developing a File System Structure to Solve Healthy Big Data
Storage and Archiving Problems Using a Distributed File System. Appl. Sci. 2018.
9. Kaur, Ravneet, Inderveer Chana, and Jhilik Bhattacharya. "Data deduplication
techniques for efficient cloud storage management: a systematic review." The Journal
of Supercomputing 74 (2018): 2035-2085.
10. Tadapaneni, Narendra Rao. "Different types of cloud service models."(2017).

Physical references
Under the guidance of
Mr. Sachin Upadhyay
(Assistant Professor in CEA Department, GLA University, Mathura)

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