Design a file sync and sharing service

Q: Design a file sync and sharing service

This question evaluates system design competency, covering distributed storage architecture, synchronization protocols, conflict resolution and versioning, access control, durability and scalability.

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System Design questions require understanding of core concepts and practice. PracHub provides solutions with explanations to help you master system design interviews.

Question

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Scenario

Design a cloud file storage, sync, and sharing service similar to a consumer/team drive product.

Core requirements

Upload/download files from multiple devices.
Automatic sync across devices (desktop/mobile).
Share files/folders with other users via invitations and/or share links.
Support file version history and restore.
Handle concurrent edits/conflicts.

Non-functional requirements

High durability (no data loss), high availability.
Efficient bandwidth usage (avoid re-uploading entire large files when small changes occur, if possible).
Secure: encryption, access control, auditability.

Deliverable

Propose APIs, data model, storage strategy, sync protocol, and scaling approach.

Design a file sync and sharing service

Quick Overview

Scenario

Core requirements

Non-functional requirements

Deliverable

Solution

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