Product Introduction
- Proton Drive 2.0 is an end-to-end encrypted cloud storage service developed by the team behind Proton Mail, offering secure file storage, access, and sharing from any device. It provides 5 GB of free storage with Swiss-based servers and zero-access encryption, ensuring files remain private even from Proton itself. All data, including file names and metadata, is encrypted both at rest and in transit using mathematically proven algorithms. The service is designed for users who prioritize data sovereignty and protection against surveillance or unauthorized access.
- The core value of Proton Drive 2.0 lies in its uncompromising privacy-first approach, combining military-grade encryption with Swiss legal protections to safeguard user data. Unlike mainstream cloud providers, it does not analyze files for advertising, AI training, or third-party sharing. By decentralizing data control, it empowers individuals and organizations to store sensitive documents, photos, and collaborative works securely. Its mission aligns with creating an internet where users retain full ownership of their digital assets.
Main Features
- End-to-end encrypted storage: Files are encrypted locally on the user’s device using AES-256 before being uploaded to Proton’s Swiss datacenters. This ensures that even Proton cannot access file contents, names, or folder structures. Automatic backups across redundant servers guarantee data availability without compromising security.
- Secure file sharing: Users can generate password-protected or expiring links for sharing files and folders, with no size limits on transfers. End-to-end encryption extends to shared content, ensuring only recipients with the link and password can decrypt files. Shared links can be revoked instantly via the dashboard.
- Encrypted document collaboration: The integrated Docs feature enables real-time editing of end-to-end encrypted documents, with version history and conflict resolution. Collaboration occurs without exposing content to third parties, making it ideal for sensitive legal, financial, or research projects. Offline editing and granular permission controls enhance usability.
Problems Solved
- Data vulnerability in conventional cloud storage: Proton Drive eliminates risks of unauthorized access by ensuring files are encrypted before leaving the user’s device. This prevents exposure from breaches, government requests, or corporate data mining. Swiss jurisdiction further shields data from foreign surveillance laws.
- Target users: The service caters to privacy-conscious individuals, journalists, activists, and businesses handling confidential data (e.g., healthcare, legal, or financial sectors). It is also adopted by educators and researchers requiring secure collaboration tools.
- Use cases: Securely storing medical records, sharing encrypted business contracts, backing up personal media libraries, and protecting whistleblower materials. Families use it to safeguard photos and videos, while businesses synchronize files across global teams without interception risks.
Unique Advantages
- Swiss legal framework: Operates under Switzerland’s Federal Data Protection Act (FDPA), which imposes stricter privacy requirements than GDPR or US regulations. Data cannot be seized without a Swiss court order, providing an additional layer of protection.
- Open-source transparency: Proton Drive’s code is publicly auditable, allowing third-party verification of encryption and security claims. This contrasts with proprietary solutions like Google Drive or Dropbox, which keep their systems opaque.
- Non-profit foundation model: The Proton Foundation ensures user privacy remains the primary focus, avoiding conflicts of interest common in ad-driven tech companies. Features like unlimited file versioning, cross-platform sync, and TOTP-based link expiration are unmatched in privacy-focused competitors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I sync files from my computer to Proton Drive? Proton Drive for Windows allows syncing any folder between local storage and the encrypted cloud, with changes reflected in real time. Files are encrypted before upload using AES-256, and the sync client supports selective folder management.
- What can I store in Proton Drive? Any file type, including documents, photos, videos, and sensitive data like medical records or cryptographic keys, can be stored. All content receives end-to-end encryption regardless of format, with no restrictions beyond Swiss legal prohibitions on illegal material.
- Is Proton Drive suitable for businesses? Yes, Drive for Business offers centralized team management, audit logs, and remote device wiping while maintaining end-to-end encryption. It complies with GDPR and HIPAA-level requirements, making it ideal for enterprises needing secure collaboration and data control.