Filen is a next-generation encrypted cloud storage service founded in 2020 in Recklinghausen, Germany, by a team of German cybersecurity enthusiasts committed to providing maximum privacy and security. Built from the ground up with zero-knowledge end-to-end encryption, Filen ensures that neither the company nor any third parties can access user data. Operating exclusively from Germany with servers housed in ISO 27001 certified Tier IV data centers, Filen represents a completely independent alternative to Big Tech cloud storage, emphasizing transparency, privacy, and user control.

Key Features

Filen implements client-side AES 256-bit encryption, meaning all data is encrypted on the user's device before transmission, ensuring absolute privacy protection. The platform offers comprehensive cloud storage functionality including file synchronization across all platforms with five versatile sync modes, from automatic two-way syncing to specialized backup configurations. Unlike many competitors, Filen provides unlimited bandwidth without speed restrictions, allowing users to upload and download as much data as their connection permits.

The service extends beyond basic storage with encrypted notes supporting rich text, code, markdown, and checklists, plus end-to-end encrypted chat functionality for secure team collaboration. Advanced features include network drive mounting, Smart Sync for instant file access, file versioning without limits, and professional developer tools including CLI, TypeScript and Go SDKs, plus self-hosted WebDAV and S3 server capabilities.

All Filen applications are open-source under the AGPL v3 license, allowing complete transparency and community auditing of security implementations. The platform supports seamless integration across web browsers, desktop applications (Windows, macOS, Linux), and mobile devices (iOS, Android).

Privacy and Security

Filen operates under Germany's strict data protection framework with full GDPR compliance and adherence to German privacy laws, offering some of Europe's highest privacy standards. The company's zero-knowledge architecture ensures that encryption keys never leave user devices, making it technically impossible for Filen to access stored data even if compelled by authorities. All data is stored exclusively in German data centers with Tier IV security certification and ISO 27001 compliance.

The service's commitment to transparency extends to its open-source codebase, allowing independent security experts to verify encryption implementations and audit for potential vulnerabilities. As a completely self-funded company without external investors, Filen maintains independence from corporate pressures that might compromise user privacy. The company has plans for professional security audits to further validate its security architecture.

Filen's technical design prioritizes user control with client-side encryption, zero data collection beyond essential service requirements, and a privacy policy notable for its brevity and clarity. The service offers two-factor authentication and maintains detailed technical documentation explaining its encryption processes.

Why Choose Filen?

• German Privacy Excellence: Operated exclusively in Germany under strict EU data protection laws with no foreign government access or surveillance concerns
• True Zero-Knowledge: Client-side encryption ensures even Filen cannot access your data, providing genuine privacy by design
• Complete Transparency: Open-source applications allow community verification of security claims and encryption implementations
• Developer-Friendly: Comprehensive APIs, SDKs, CLI tools, and self-hosted WebDAV/S3 server capabilities for technical users
• Unlimited Performance: No bandwidth restrictions or speed throttling unlike many competitors including pCloud
• Independent Operation: Self-funded without Big Tech backing, ensuring user interests remain the primary focus

Pricing

Filen offers exceptional value with affordable plans and unique lifetime options:

• Free Plan: 10GB storage with full encryption and all core features
• Starter Plan: 100GB for €11.99/year or €29.99 lifetime (one-time payment)
• Pro I: 200GB for €1.99/month or €19.99/year
• Pro II: 500GB for €3.99/month or €39.99/year
• Pro III: 2TB for €8.99/month or €89.99/year
• Pro X: 10TB for higher-tier pricing

All plans include unlimited bandwidth, full encryption, and access to all features. Lifetime plans offer exceptional long-term value and are frequently available during sales events. Plans are stackable, allowing users to combine multiple lifetime purchases for increased storage.

Ideal For

Filen excels for privacy-conscious individuals and organizations requiring maximum data security without compromising functionality. The service is particularly valuable for developers and technical users who appreciate open-source transparency, comprehensive APIs, and advanced integration capabilities. European users benefit from local data residency and strict privacy protections under German law.

The platform serves security professionals, journalists, activists, and businesses handling sensitive information who need verifiable encryption and zero-knowledge architecture. Creative professionals and remote teams benefit from unlimited bandwidth for large file transfers and encrypted collaboration features. The affordable lifetime plans make Filen attractive for long-term personal backup and archival needs.

Organizations seeking alternatives to Big Tech cloud services will appreciate Filen's independence, transparency, and commitment to user privacy over profit maximization. The service is ideal for users who want enterprise-grade security at consumer-friendly prices while supporting European technology independence.

Additional Resources

• Filen Official Website
• Open Source Applications on GitHub
• Developer Documentation and APIs
• Technical Security Whitepaper
• Community Support on Reddit
• CLI and Developer Tools