Lufi (Let’s Upload that FIle)
Lufi, which stands for "Let’s Upload that FIle," is an open-source, end-to-end encrypted file sharing solution designed to prioritize privacy, security, and user control. Unlike traditional file sharing services where uploaded files can potentially be accessed by server administrators or intercepted in transit, Lufi ensures that all files are encrypted directly within the user's browser before they are uploaded. This means the contents of files are never exposed to the server, network administrators, or even Internet Service Providers; only the file name, size, and type are visible to the server administrator, while the actual data remains confidential and protected.
Features and Encryption
One of Lufi’s nice features is its browser-based encryption. The encryption and decryption processes occur entirely on the client side, and the encryption key is embedded as a fragment identifier in the download URL. This key never leaves the user’s device or gets transmitted to the server, ensuring that only those with the correct download link can access the file contents. Lufi supports a wide range of browsers and devices, including Firefox, Chrome, Microsoft Edge, Safari, and both iOS and Android platforms, making it accessible and versatile for various user needs.
Lufi’s user interface is designed for simplicity and efficiency. Users can easily drag and drop files into the upload area or use traditional file selection methods. Once a file is uploaded, Lufi provides two unique links: a download link for sharing and a deletion link that allows the uploader to remove the file at any time. Additional features include the ability to set timers for automatic file deletion, create zipped archives, set password protection for downloads, and configure files to self-destruct after the first download. The interface is responsive and supports multiple languages, catering to a broad international audience.
Open-Source Nature and Community
As an open-source project licensed under the AGPLv3, Lufi’s source code is freely available for inspection, modification, and contribution. This transparency fosters trust and allows organizations or individuals to tailor the software to their specific requirements. The open-source nature also means that there are no licensing fees, making Lufi an attractive option for small businesses or teams with limited budgets.
Self-Hosting Benefits for Small Businesses
Self-hosting Lufi offers significant advantages, especially for small businesses concerned about data privacy and regulatory compliance. By deploying Lufi on their own infrastructure, businesses retain full control over where data is stored and who has access to it, minimizing the risk of third-party breaches or unauthorized access. The software is lightweight, does not demand extensive hardware resources, and can be set up using standard deployment tools, including Docker and Ansible, which streamlines installation and maintenance. Self-hosting also allows businesses to customize retention policies, branding, and access controls to align with their operational needs and compliance obligations.
How Lufi Helps Small Businesses
For small businesses, adopting a self-hosted, open-source solution like Lufi can get client trust by demonstrating a commitment to data security and privacy. It enables secure internal and external file sharing without relying on commercial cloud services, reducing recurring costs and mitigating risks associated with vendor lock-in or sudden changes in third-party service terms. Additionally, the ability to set file expiration times and password protection ensures sensitive documents are only accessible for as long as necessary, further strengthening information governance.
Check it out here: https://github.com/ldidry/lufi