Building a Cloud Service for Instant File Transfer Between Devices
In organizations with limited software environments on workstations, there's often a need for quick file transfers between devices. Standard methods—email, USB drives, or cloud storage—fail due to lack of accounts, messengers, and pre-installed software. Transferring from phone to PC or between bare machines requires manual credential entry or cumbersome links, slowing down processes.
Key incident: A USB drive infected with viruses led to data loss, highlighting the risks of physical media.
The Cell Numbering Concept
The solution is a cloud service with fixed short links like domain/number. Users create a 'cell' (virtual storage), receiving a unique number (e.g., 123). Access via link wekibi.com/123 with password entry. Each cell offers 1 GB free, forever.
Cells partition space: files are inaccessible without the number and password. This emulates a 'pocket' USB that works on any device with a browser and internet.
- Advantages of this approach:
- No registration for guests.
- Short links can be typed manually.
- Minimal dependencies: only a browser.
- Cell-based separation ensures privacy.
Development and Security
The project was implemented on rented servers from major providers with their DDoS and hacker attack protection. Additionally, we integrated:
- Protection against XSS and brute-force attacks.
- Background antivirus scanning of files.
- Monitoring of suspicious activity.
The service launched after a month of intensive development (10–15 hours per day). Testing showed convenience: files upload/download instantly after password entry.
Functionality for Administrators and Guests
Roles are distinguished: administrator (creator) and guest.
- Guest mode: Enabling gives guests equal rights (upload, download, delete). The administrator can block actions.
- File locking: Only the administrator can lock a file—access is restricted to them.
- Notes and files: Support for text notes and any file types.
- Processing history: A log for each file—from antivirus scan to publication.
- Monitoring: Display of used space, logout/cell deletion.
| Function | Administrator | Guest (with guest mode) | Guest (without guest mode) |
|----------|---------------|-------------------------|----------------------------|
| Upload | Yes | Yes (in mode) | No |
| Download | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Delete | Yes | Yes (in mode) | No |
| Lock | Yes | No | No |
Example use case: A brother sends a PDF via WhatsApp, the file is uploaded to a cell from a phone, and downloaded to a PC in seconds.
Scaling and Applications
The service targets scenarios with 'bare' devices: corporate PCs without accounts, guest machines, cross-platform transfers. Lack of complex authentication simplifies integration into DevOps or support scripts.
In production tests on 200+ devices, the service replaced 90% of manual transfers, integrating with automation scripts.
Key Takeaways
- Short fixed links provide access without copying.
- 1 GB free per cell number—no subscriptions.
- Dual role (admin/guest) with granular control.
- Full antivirus chain: scan, log, publish.
- Privacy: files are isolated by cell.
— Editorial Team
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