About

Cumulus Encrypted Storage System (CESS) is a decentralized cloud storage solution developed using Substrate. CESS offers a full-stack infrastructure that aims to address the limitations of traditional centralized storage solutions by providing a more secure and efficient method for data management and sharing. Key features include:

• Decentralization: CESS operates as a blockchain-based network, eliminating the need for intermediaries in data governance. This structure enhances security and user control over data.
• Data Privacy and Security: The system employs advanced encryption techniques, including a unique Multi-format Data Rights Confirmation Mechanism (MDRC) and Proof of Data Reduplication and Recovery (PoDR²). These mechanisms ensure that user data remains private and is redundantly stored across the network, reducing risks of data loss or breaches.
• Interoperability: CESS supports cross-platform data sharing, allowing users to engage in various forms of digital content exchange, including NFTs. This feature promotes a community-driven economy where creators can securely share and monetize their digital assets.

History

CESS was founded in 2019, as a decentralized data value infrastructure supporting applications across sectors such as DePIN, AI, and DeSci. It emphasizes enhanced data privacy, sovereignty, and security through decentralized storage and delivery solutions.

On Dec. 27, 2023, CESS announced a Series A fundraising of $8M, with investments from DWF Labs, Infinity Ventures Crypto, Web3 Foundation, 7 O'Clock Capital, and HTX Ventures, among others. At the same time the mainnet v1.0 was successfully launched marking production readiness and commercial adoption capability.

In November 2024, CESS focused on core network reliability, protocol upgrades, and standards development. Improvements spanned consensus/storage stability, auditing and encryption in object storage, and enhanced user/dev experience via updated explorer and website tools. Between November 2024 and July 2025, CESS expanded DeOSS decentralized storage features, optimizing data caching, retrieval, metadata management, SDKs, and CDN scalability for high-frequency Web3 use.

By July 2025, CESS tokens were listed on exchanges, such as KuCoin and Toolbit, while in August 2025, CESS made progress in transitioning key modules to Pre-Mainnet Venus+, optimizing performance for consensus, storage, and TEE nodes.

In September 2025, CESS delivered substantial performance optimizations for its testnet, DeOSS, and DeCloud platforms. These upgrades drive real-time, decentralized storage and CDN functionality for enterprise and Web3 use - reinforcing its position as a leading, privacy-focused data value network as Mainnet Venus+ approaches production.