Hyperdrive is a peer-to-peer network similar to BitTorrent with distinct differences.
Similarities to BitTorrent
- Hyperdrives can be hosted from any user’s device
- All data uses cryptographic authentication
- Peers discovered via DHT
- Peers can co-host to share bandwidth
Key Differences
- Drives are addressed by public-key URLs, e.g.
hyper://12345..af - Files are signed for authenticity
- Files can be modified
- Change history is logged
- Only those knowing the public-key URL can connect
Core Mechanics
A hyperdrive functions as a networked folder containing files, folders, symlinks, and mounts. Nomad’s implementation supports executing web content.
Public-key URLs identify each drive using a 64-character hex string as the domain, with standard HTTPS-style paths, queries, and hash segments.
Authorship requires possessing the drive’s private key for modifications. “Currently the private key cannot be shared between devices or users,” limiting collaboration.
Co-hosting involves devices announcing themselves on the DHT Swarm to provide content.
Caching automatically stores accessed content locally for faster subsequent retrieval.
Versioning maintains linear history with an incrementable counter, allowing previous version access without Git-style branching.
Mounts function as symlinks between hyperdrives, similar to Git submodules.
File K/V metadata stores additional information like the href key for resource references.
Querying enables scanning multiple folders with filtering, sorting, and pagination capabilities.
