A SOFTWARE FRAMEWORK FOR SECURE CLOUD FILE HOSTING USING AN IOT-BASED SECURITY APPROACH

Abstract

Cloud file hosting platforms have become essential for data storage,
collaboration, and information sharing in modern institutions. Despite their
benefits, traditional cloud systems face persistent security challenges, especially
when integrated with Internet of Things (IoT) devices that generate and access
sensitive data. These challenges are more pronounced in developing regions,
where infrastructural constraints and evolving regulatory frameworks
complicate secure cloud adoption. This paper presents the design of a software
framework for a robust cloud-based file hosting platform that integrates IoTbased security mechanisms to enhance data confidentiality, access control, and
system resilience. The proposed framework adopts a modular architecture that
incorporates IoT-aware authentication, role-based access control, multi-layer
encryption, and secure cloud storage services. Using a design science research
methodology, the framework is conceptually developed and analyzed to
demonstrate how IoT security components can be embedded into cloud file
hosting without the need for costly full-scale system deployment. The
framework is evaluated conceptually based on performance, security robustness,
and the ability to be deployed within academic institutions in Nigeria. The
findings indicate that a framework-based approach provides a scalable, costeffective, and adaptable solution for secure cloud file hosting in resourceconstrained environments.