Cloud File Integrity Checker - Technical & Engineering Guide
1. Introduction
1.1 Purpose
This guide outlines the development of a Cloud File Integrity Checker, a tool designed to ensure the integrity of files stored in cloud environments. The system validates file authenticity using cryptographic hashes and alerts users of any unauthorized modifications.
1.2 Scope
The system is tailored for organizations and individuals who need to maintain the integrity of sensitive data stored in cloud storage solutions. It provides a secure and efficient mechanism for file integrity verification.
2. Features
- **Hash-Based Verification**: Uses cryptographic hash
functions (e.g., SHA-256) for file validation.
- **Automated Scanning**: Periodically scans cloud storage for file
modifications.
- **Alerts and Notifications**: Sends alerts in case of integrity breaches.
- **Cross-Platform Compatibility**: Supports major cloud storage platforms
(e.g., AWS S3, Google Drive).
- **User Dashboard**: Displays file statuses and detailed logs.
3. System Requirements
1. **Operating System**: Windows, macOS, or Linux.
2. **Hardware**: Minimum 4GB RAM, 10GB disk space.
3. **Software**: Python 3.9 or later, cloud storage SDKs (e.g., boto3 for AWS).
4. **Dependencies**: Hashing libraries such as hashlib.
4. Architecture and Design
4.1 System Architecture
The system consists of three main components:
- **Frontend**: User interface for configuring scans and viewing results.
- **Backend**: Handles file scanning, hashing, and comparison.
- **Database**: Stores file metadata, hashes, and logs.
4.2 Workflow
1. User uploads files to the cloud storage.
2. The system generates and stores cryptographic hashes of the files.
3. During scheduled or manual scans, the system recalculates hashes and
compares them to the stored values.
4. If a mismatch is detected, the user is notified immediately.
5. Development Process
5.1 Frontend Development
- Develop a user-friendly dashboard using HTML, CSS, and
JavaScript frameworks (e.g., React or Angular).
- Include options to configure scan schedules and view alerts.
- Display logs and detailed file integrity reports.
5.2 Backend Development
- Implement hashing algorithms using libraries like hashlib.
- Use SDKs to interface with cloud storage platforms.
- Develop a notification system using email or SMS APIs.
5.3 Database Design
- Use a relational database (e.g., MySQL) to store file
metadata and hashes.
- Implement encryption for sensitive data storage.
- Maintain logs for all scan activities.
6. Testing and Validation
1. **Unit Testing**: Validate hashing and comparison logic.
2. **Integration Testing**: Ensure seamless operation with cloud storage
platforms.
3. **Performance Testing**: Test the system's efficiency with large datasets.
4. **Security Testing**: Ensure the system resists attacks such as hash
collisions.
7. Deployment and Maintenance
1. Deploy the tool on a cloud-based server for scalability.
2. Monitor system performance and address issues promptly.
3. Update hashing algorithms and cloud SDKs regularly to maintain compatibility
and security.