.seigr File Format

The .seigr file (pronounced "dot-seigr") is a data format developed for the Seigr Urcelial-net decentralized network. Inspired by the interconnected and layered nature of mycelial networks, the .seigr format allows secure, dynamic, multi-dimensional storage and distribution of data across decentralized nodes, supporting accessibility, scalability, and data integrity for all contributors. By extending beyond linear data segmentation, .seigr files enable Seigr to handle complex relationships, supporting multiple pathways and layers within data, for a more interactive and resilient approach to distributed storage.

Why the .seigr File Format?

In an evolving digital landscape, data storage must prioritize adaptability, security, and inclusivity. The .seigr format addresses these priorities by structuring data into multi-dimensional, interlinked units using senary (base-6) encoding. This encoding maximizes storage efficiency, preserves data integrity, and ensures accessibility, even for devices with limited storage capacities, thereby fostering a robust, collaborative data-sharing network.

Key Features of .seigr Files

The .seigr format brings a number of groundbreaking features to the Seigr Urcelial-net, enhancing flexibility, security, and scalability through:

Fixed Size of 539 KB: Each .seigr file is exactly 539 KB, making it lightweight enough for mobile devices yet robust for servers. This standard size optimizes data accessibility across a range of devices.

Senary Encoding and Multi-Dimensional Links: Data is encoded in base-6 (senary), reducing storage requirements. Additionally, the format incorporates multiple non-linear linkages between segments, enabling a flexible, layered approach to data retrieval.

Tamper-Proof Hash Chaining: Each .seigr file is cryptographically linked to other segments in multiple paths, forming a secure web that helps detect tampering.

Dynamic Replication and Cross-Referencing: Each file references other segments and adapts replication based on demand and availability. This multi-path reference structure enhances data resilience and flexibility.

Decentralized Storage with IPFS: With IPFS integration, .seigr files are distributed across a decentralized network, ensuring accessibility and security without central storage dependence.

Multi-Dimensional Data Structure in .seigr Files

The .seigr format introduces an innovative approach to structuring and linking data, modeled after multi-dimensional networks. This allows for complex retrieval and adaptive pathways through the following components:

Primary Hash and Secondary Links: Each segment includes a primary hash and additional links (secondary hashes) to other segments, which may be functionally related or contextually relevant rather than sequential. This allows for flexible and multi-layered reconstruction.

Coordinate-Based Indexing (Optional): In some cases, a segment may include coordinate values that represent its position within a larger, multi-layer structure. This enables the creation of three-dimensional data layers within a dataset.

Layered Data Navigation: Segments include pointers to other segments in both vertical (hierarchical) and horizontal (related segment) orientations, supporting multiple "views" of the data.

The Seed .seigr File: Managing File Collection and Retrieval

The Seed .seigr File acts as a master reference file for any collection of .seigr segments, storing essential metadata and references to all segments needed to reconstruct the data. The seed file supports multi-dimensional data retrieval through:

Comprehensive Reference for Reconstruction: The seed file includes not only linear segment lists but also multi-path links, enabling flexible, non-linear reassembly paths for data.

Routing Information and Metadata: Includes metadata about the original data set, associated segments, and replication states, ensuring accurate and efficient data retrieval.

Dynamic Pathways: As files replicate and migrate, the seed file adjusts pathways to reflect new, optimized routes across the network, maintaining data accessibility even as storage nodes change.

Structure of a .seigr File

Each .seigr file follows a structured format to support multi-layered relationships and efficient retrieval:

Header:

 - Version: Specifies the format version.
 - File Type: Indicates the data type (binary, text, etc.).
 - Part Index and Total Parts: Position and count of segments within the dataset.
 - Primary and Secondary Links: Hash references to related segments for multi-dimensional data paths.
 - Coordinates (optional): Multi-layer positioning values for non-linear data mapping.

Senary Encoded Data: The file’s core data, senary-encoded to maximize compatibility with Seigr’s storage requirements.

Integrity Verification: A cryptographic hash generated with HyphaCrypt, verifying file integrity across interconnected segments.

Adaptive Replication and Cross-Referencing System

The .seigr format supports a robust adaptive replication and cross-referencing system, ensuring resilience and flexibility within the Seigr Urcelial-net:

1. Multi-Path Cross-Referencing:

  - Segments reference other segments through primary and secondary hashes, which support non-linear, multi-path retrieval. This cross-referencing network enables reconstruction through multiple pathways.

2. Dynamic Replication:

  - Each segment’s replication count scales based on demand. High-demand segments are widely replicated, while less-used segments maintain minimal copies.

3. Availability and Integrity Verification:

  - Regular checks verify each segment’s integrity and replication level. Missing segments can be reconstructed through alternate segments, maintaining data reliability.

Hyphen Network and Distributed Data Management

Participants, known as Hyphens, are responsible for the decentralized sharing and replication of .seigr files across the Seigr Urcelial-net:

Distributed Caching: Hyphens cache data segments to ensure availability across nodes. High-demand segments are prioritized to improve retrieval times.

Replication Scaling and Self-Healing: Hyphens monitor replication and automatically generate copies based on demand, maintaining minimum levels across the network.

Data Integrity through Hash Chains: Hash-based verification enables Hyphens to detect and replace corrupted files, supporting a self-healing network structure.

The Encoder/Decoder Module and Multi-Layered Encoding

The Encoder/Decoder Module, powered by HyphaCrypt, encodes data with multi-layered senary encoding and reconstructs data along multiple retrieval paths:

Senary Encoding with Multi-Layered Linking: Converts binary data to senary, embedding primary and secondary links to establish multi-path connections.

Non-Linear Decoding: Decodes data through dynamic retrieval paths, allowing reconstruction based on segment relationships.

Security and Integrity in the .seigr Format

The .seigr format employs HyphaCrypt encryption and multi-layered hashing to ensure data security and integrity:

Tamper-Proof Design: Hash chains and adaptive salting create tamper-resistant files, making any unauthorized changes easily detectable.

Encryption Compatibility: Files can be encrypted to restrict access, adding an additional layer of security.

Future Potential

The .seigr format represents a foundational step toward adaptable, resilient data structures. By enabling multi-dimensional, senary-encoded links, the format supports a wide array of decentralized applications and future enhancements in cryptographic security, dynamic data retrieval, and community-driven data management.

Conclusion

The .seigr format exemplifies Seigr’s commitment to a sustainable, secure, and adaptive digital ecosystem. Through multi-dimensional, senary-based links, the format redefines data storage and retrieval for the Seigr community, empowering participants to contribute to a scalable, accessible, and secure network.

The .seigr format is both an innovative technical solution and an invitation to scientists, researchers, and technologists to engage with decentralized data in a transformative way.