Monti, MatteoRasmussen, Steen2017-12-042017-12-042017-12-04201710.1162/ARTL_a_00247https://infoscience.epfl.ch/handle/20.500.14299/142649WOS:000414299500007We summarize the results and perspectives from a companion article, where we presented and evaluated an alternative architecture for data storage in distributed networks. We name the bio-inspired architecture RAIN, and it offers file storage service that, in contrast with current centralized cloud storage, has privacy by design, is open source, is more secure, is scalable, is more sustainable, has community ownership, is inexpensive, and is potentially faster, more efficient, and more reliable. We propose that a RAIN-style architecture could form the backbone of the Internet of Things that likely will integrate multiple current and future infrastructures ranging from online services and cryptocurrency to parts of government administration.Distributed storageprivacy by designInternet of Thingscommunity ownershipsustainabilitytext::journal::journal article::research article