IPFS Protocol Explained
Introduction
IPFS stands for InterPlanetary File System. It is a decentralized file storage protocol used to store and retrieve files across a distributed network.
In the context of Solana tokens, IPFS is commonly used to store token metadata, images, logos, and JSON files. Instead of storing large files directly on-chain, the blockchain stores a link to the file stored on IPFS.
Why Is IPFS Used for Tokens?
Blockchains are not designed to store large image files or detailed metadata directly on-chain. Doing so would be expensive and inefficient.
IPFS solves this by allowing token projects to store files off-chain while still keeping them publicly accessible.
Token metadata commonly stored on IPFS includes:
- Token logo
- Token name
- Token symbol
- Description
- Website links
- Social media links
- Metadata JSON files
How IPFS Works
IPFS does not work like a normal website file path. Traditional websites usually locate files by where they are stored. IPFS locates files by what they contain.
When a file is uploaded to IPFS, the file receives a unique content identifier, often called a CID.
A CID is a special address generated from the contents of the file. If the file changes, the CID changes too.
- Same file: same CID
- Changed file: different CID
- CID: used to retrieve the file from IPFS
This makes IPFS useful for token metadata because users and wallets can verify they are loading the exact file referenced by the token.
What Is a CID?
A CID, or Content Identifier, is the unique identifier assigned to a file uploaded to IPFS.
For example, a token logo uploaded to IPFS receives its own CID. A metadata JSON file also receives its own CID.
Wallets and explorers use these IPFS references to display token information such as the logo, name, and description.
What Is Token Metadata?
Token metadata is the information that tells wallets and explorers how your token should appear.
Metadata can include:
- The token's display name
- The token symbol
- The token logo image
- A project description
- External website links
- Social links
When you create a token, the metadata is usually converted into a JSON file. That JSON file points to your token image and other project details.
The JSON file is then uploaded to IPFS, and the token stores a reference to that metadata file.
If you want to learn more about metadata when it comes to tokens on Solana, check out our article SPL Metadata Explained.
Why Not Store Everything Directly On-Chain?
Storing every image, description, and metadata file directly on-chain would make token creation more expensive and inefficient.
Instead, Solana tokens typically store compact references to metadata. The heavier files, such as logos and JSON metadata, are stored externally through systems like IPFS.
This keeps the token lightweight while still allowing wallets and explorers to display rich information about the asset.
How Solana Token Forge Uses IPFS
Solana Token Forge uses IPFS to store token images and metadata files during token creation.
We use Pinata to upload and manage token metadata on IPFS. Pinata is a popular IPFS storage provider that helps keep uploaded files accessible and reliable.
When you create a token with Solana Token Forge, the tool prepares your metadata, uploads it through Pinata, and links that metadata to your new Solana token.
This process allows your token logo, description, and related information to appear in supported wallets and blockchain explorers.
What Does Pinata Do?
Pinata helps store files on IPFS and makes them easier to access reliably.
In simple terms, Pinata helps keep your uploaded token files available so wallets, explorers, and users can load them when needed.
For Solana Token Forge, Pinata is used to handle:
- Token logo uploads
- Metadata JSON uploads
- IPFS file hosting
- Reliable access to token metadata
Can IPFS Files Be Changed?
A file uploaded to IPFS cannot be changed without creating a new CID.
If you edit a logo or metadata file, the updated version receives a new CID. The original CID still points to the original file.
This is why token metadata should be reviewed carefully before launch, especially if you plan to revoke Update Authority later.
IPFS and Update Authority
IPFS stores the metadata file, but Update Authority determines whether your token can point to new metadata later.
If Update Authority is retained, the token metadata reference may be updated later to point to a new IPFS file.
If Update Authority is revoked, the token metadata becomes locked and cannot be changed.
- Update Authority kept: metadata can be updated later
- Update Authority revoked: metadata becomes permanently locked
- New metadata file: receives a new IPFS CID
Final Thoughts
IPFS is an important part of how Solana token metadata works. It allows token projects to store images and metadata files outside the blockchain while keeping those files publicly accessible.
Solana Token Forge uses Pinata to upload token images and metadata to IPFS, making it easier for creators to launch tokens with logos, descriptions, websites, and social links.
Before creating your token, make sure your metadata is accurate. Once your metadata is uploaded and your token authorities are revoked, changes may no longer be possible.