This content originally appeared on DEV Community and was authored by Naman Srivastava
Secure, Login-Free File Transfers with File_Storage
Ever been stuck on a public lab computer and needed to get your files to your own device—without logging into your email, Google Drive, or Dropbox?
That’s exactly why I built File_Storage — a lightweight, PIN-protected web app for quick, secure file transfers.
Why File_Storage Exists
When working in shared environments like college computer labs or public workstations, logging into personal accounts can feel risky.
I wanted a solution that:
- Works without sign-ups or logins
- Protects files from unwanted access
- Is easy enough for anyone to use in under 10 seconds
What It Does
With File_Storage, you can:
- Upload any number of files to a secure online folder
- Download them later from any device
- Delete files instantly when you’re done
All through a clean, responsive web interface — no accounts, just a PIN.
How It Works
1. Secure Backend
- Google Drive API handles storage, powered by a dedicated Service Account
- No credentials in the code — everything is stored in environment variables
- A simple PIN system ensures only authorized users can access the interface
2. User Flow
- Enter the access PIN
- Upload files (single or multiple)
- Download instantly, or delete when no longer needed
Tech Stack
- Backend: Flask (Python), Google Drive API
- Frontend: HTML, CSS, JavaScript (AJAX for smooth uploads/deletes)
- Security: Service Account keys via environment variables, no password storage
- Hosting: Cloud platform (e.g., Render)
Deploy Your Own
Want to run your own instance?
- Create a Google Cloud project and enable the Drive API
- Make a Service Account, generate a JSON key, share your Drive folder with it
- Deploy the Flask app to a cloud host
- Set the
GOOGLE_APPLICATION_CREDENTIALS_JSON
environment variable
(Full setup guide in the GitHub README)
Who Should Use It
- Students & Teachers — Move files without touching your email
- Teams — Quick, private file drops without a complex sharing setup
- Anyone — Needing simple, secure file transfer in seconds
Final Thoughts
File_Storage turns file transfer from a tedious task into a fast, private, login-free process.
Whether you’re working in a lab, at a library, or on a friend’s laptop, your files are just a PIN away.
This content originally appeared on DEV Community and was authored by Naman Srivastava