NFTs’ On-Chain Storage

What is On-Chain Storage?

On-chain storage in the context of NFTs (Non-Fungible Tokens) refers to the practice of directly saving the asset associated with an NFT on the blockchain itself.

Natively On-Chain Projects

– Definition: Projects that store all asset files on-chain are often referred to as “natively on-chain.”

– Comprehensive Storage: In such projects, all the information related to an NFT, including both metadata and the actual asset, is stored directly on the blockchain.

Advantages of On-Chain Storage

– Preserving Blockchain Features: Storing the asset on-chain ensures that all the fundamental features of blockchain technology are preserved.

– Key Features: These features include immutability, decentralization, and resistance to single points of failure, among others.

Use Cases and Feasibility

– Artwork Described in Code: On-chain storage is primarily feasible and cost-effective for artwork that can be effectively described in code.

– Popular in Generative Art: It’s a popular design choice in the realm of generative art, where the art is algorithmically generated and can be represented in code.

– Challenges for Photography and Videography: However, on-chain storage is often economically and technically infeasible for assets like traditional photography or videography due to their larger file sizes and non-code-based nature.

In summary, on-chain storage for NFTs involves saving both metadata and the actual asset directly on the blockchain. This design choice offers advantages such as immutability and decentralization but is most practical for assets that can be described in code, making it a favored choice for generative art. For larger assets like photography and videography, alternative storage solutions are typically more suitable.