As a full-time creator and freelancer, I produce video content, manage brand relationships and handle sensitive client data on a daily basis. Even if your files are encrypted, bad actors can gain access to them, or steal your data today with the goal of unlocking it tomorrow.
A data-free, post-quantum cloud storage service like Internxt can give you peace of mind. And you can take advantage of CNET’s special offer to get up to 87% off any Internxt paid plan. Find the offer here.
- Internxt uses zero-knowledge encryption, which means that even the company itself cannot access your files.
- It is the first cloud storage provider to use post-quantum encryption, protecting data from future quantum computing attacks.
- The service includes a full privacy suite: encrypted cloud storage, VPN, antivirus, email cleaner, video calls and more.
- It works across Mac, Windows, Linux, Web, iOS and Android with clean, standard apps.
- Internxt is open source, independently audited by Securitum and fully GDPR compliant. It also meets ISO 27001, HIPAA, ENS, SOC 2, and other security certifications.
- It also has Internxt AI, a private alternative to ChatGPT and Gemini.
I have been using Dropbox, Google Drive and iCloud for cloud storage for years. Everyone is doing something well. But none of them provide true zero-knowledge encryption by default. That means companies can technically access your files, and so can hackers.
To address this concern, I tried Internxt. Here’s my experience, and what you need to know about the latest data privacy threats.
What makes encrypted cloud storage different and more secure than traditional cloud storage?
Services like Google Drive, Dropbox and iCloud encrypt your files during transfer and while they are sitting on their servers. But companies hold the encryption keys. This means they can delete and view your data whenever they want or need to.
Encryption of missing information avoids that model. With Internxt, your files are encrypted on your device before it leaves it. Internxt never sees your data in readable form. Even if a bad actor were to breach the servers, all they would get is encrypted data that is completely useless without your private key.
What everyday consumers should know about quantum computing
A quantum computer is very different from the computer on your desk. Conventional computers process information like zeros and ones, one figure at a time. Quantum computers use discrete units of information called qubits, which can represent many states at once. This allows qubits to solve certain mathematical problems much faster than anything we have today.
The current encryption that protects your files relies on mathematical problems that are nearly impossible for today’s computers to crack. But quantum computers will be able to break those encryptions in hours instead of centuries.
The “harvest now, decrypt later” threat.
Another alarming scenario is a tactic security researchers call “harvest now, decrypt later.” Bad actors today are already collecting encrypted data, storing it and waiting for quantum computers to become powerful enough to crack it all. According to Citigroup’s 2026 report, this is already considered an immediate and systematic threat, especially for long-shelf data such as personal records, medical files and business contracts.
Internxt is the first cloud storage provider to use post-quantum encryption using Kyber 512, an algorithm recognized by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). This means that the files you upload to Internxt today are protected from both current threats and future quantum attacks.
Think of it this way: Most cloud storage locks your data with a padlock that works well today, but will be easy to pick in a few years. Internxt uses a system designed to remain unbroken even after the advent of quantum computers.
My experience with Internxt
When I signed up for Internxt, the first thing I noticed was how the interface looked. If you’ve used Google Drive or Dropbox before, you’ll feel right at home. The web app has a clean sidebar with sections for Drive, Backups, Shared, Recents, Trash and Desktop.
The first thing I saved was a backup code file for our password manager, which felt appropriate for a service built around security. Then I uploaded a few MP4 video files from a recent YouTube article. The browser loading process was smooth, fast and very straightforward.
I also installed a desktop app for macOS, which allows you to sync and save folders automatically, similar to how the Dropbox or Google Drive desktop apps work.
Because of zero data encryption, Internxt’s transfer speeds can sometimes feel slower than something like Dropbox. The post-quantum encryption process takes place on your device, so a lot will depend on how powerful your device is. This is an encryption exchange that happens locally on your device before anything is loaded. In our use case, where we are backing up important files rather than sharing in real time, this was fine.
More than just cloud storage
When you sign up to Internxt, you get what they call a complete privacy environment. Beyond encrypted cloud storage, your plan includes encrypted VPN, antivirus protection, device cleaner, encrypted and encrypted video calls.
All bundles start at around $1.65 per month for up to 1TB per year, and they offer lifetime plans if you just want to make one lump sum payment and enjoy Internxt for life. In comparison, I pay more per month for Dropbox alone, without those extra privacy features.
The service is also open source, which means that anyone can test the code on GitHub, and in independent research by Securitum, a leading European cybersecurity company, no significant vulnerabilities were found.
Consider switching to Internxt
Whether you’re a business owner or a consumer looking for more future-proof data privacy, Internxt deserves a serious look. Between AI agents that can unknowingly leak private information and the looming quantum threat, the question is no longer if you need encrypted cloud storage, but when.
You can use CNET’s special offer to get up to 87% off any Internxt paid plan. Find the offer here.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is zero information encryption?
Silent encryption means that your files are encrypted on your device before they are uploaded. The cloud provider never holds the keys and cannot access your data, even if forced by a court order or affected by a server breach.
What is post-quantum encryption and why is it important?
Post-quantum encryption uses algorithms specifically designed to withstand attacks on quantum computers. As quantum technology advances, traditional encryption methods such as RSA will become vulnerable.
Is Internxt hard to set up?
Not at all. I found the interface clean and intuitive. If you have ever used a cloud storage app, you will be relieved within minutes. Desktop apps are available for Mac, Windows and Linux, as well as mobile apps for iOS and Android.
How much does Internxt cost?
Plans start at around $1.65 per month (billed annually) for 1TB. The company also offers lifetime plans and a 30-day money-back guarantee.
