StoreIt - Modern Cloud Storage Solution with Next.js

Mark Joshua

Mark Joshua Austria

PROJECT OVERVIEW
Summary
Developed a full-featured cloud storage application inspired by Google Drive and Dropbox using Next.js. The application features secure passwordless authentication, file management capabilities, and a responsive UI that works across all devices.
CONTEXT
Background & Problem
In today's job market, developers need to demonstrate their ability to build production-ready applications that solve real problems. Rather than creating yet another social media clone, this project addresses the universal need for secure, accessible file storage and management. The challenge was to build a comprehensive storage solution with modern technologies while implementing professional-grade features like authentication, file operations, and responsive design.
GOALS
Mission & Objectives
Mission
The mission of the StoreIt project was to create a professional-grade cloud storage solution that demonstrates full-stack development capabilities.
Main Challenge
Implementing a complete file management system with secure authentication, real-time storage tracking, and seamless file operations while ensuring optimal performance across all devices.
Objectives
To build a Next.js application with passwordless OTP authentication, multi-file upload capabilities, comprehensive file management features, and a responsive UI that showcases essential job-ready skills.
METHODOLOGY
Development Process
The development process began with setting up a Next.js project and establishing a design system with Tailwind CSS. Authentication was implemented using Appwrite's backend services, created reusable components for the UI, and built server actions for handling file operations. The application was structured with dynamic routing to handle different file types and implemented global search functionality with debouncing for optimal performance.
FEATURES
Key Highlights
Passwordless OTP Authentication
Implemented a secure authentication system using one-time passwords sent via email, eliminating the need for password storage while maintaining high security standards. The system handles user registration, login, and session management with proper error handling.
Comprehensive File Management
Built a complete file management system that allows users to upload, preview, rename, download, delete, and share files. The system handles various file types including documents, images, videos, and audio files, with appropriate previews for each type.
Real-time Storage Dashboard
Created an interactive dashboard that displays storage usage statistics, categorizes files by type, and shows recent uploads. The dashboard uses charts to visualize storage distribution and provides quick access to recently modified files.
PROBLEM SOLVING
Challenges & Solutions
Challenge
Implementing efficient global search across all file types while preventing excessive database queries
Solution
Implemented debouncing with the use-debounce hook to limit API calls only after users pause typing for 300ms. This significantly reduced the number of requests to the database while maintaining a responsive user experience.
Challenge
Managing complex file sharing permissions and access control
Solution
Created a robust sharing system that stores user email addresses in an array within the file document, then implemented server actions to update these permissions. This allows files to be shared with specific users while maintaining security and providing a clean UI for managing shared access.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Result
Successfully built a production-ready cloud storage application with all planned features implemented. The application demonstrates professional-level architecture, security practices, and user experience considerations that would be expected in enterprise applications.
Conclusion
The StoreIt project demonstrates how to build a complex, production-ready application using modern web technologies. By focusing on real-world functionality rather than novelty, this project showcases the essential skills employers look for: clean architecture, secure authentication, efficient data handling, and responsive design. The project serves as proof that you don't need to reinvent the wheel to demonstrate professional development capabilities.
NEXT STEPS
Future Enhancements
Implement admin privileges for shared files to control who can modify sharing settings
Add file versioning to track changes and allow reverting to previous versions
Integrate with third-party services like Google Drive or Dropbox for file import
Implement custom avatar selection or generation based on user initials
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Posted May 15, 2025

Developed a full-featured cloud storage application inspired by Google Drive and Dropbox using Next.js.