As a full-time creator and freelancer, I produce video content, manage brand partnerships and handle sensitive client data every day. Even if your files are encrypted, bad actors could be gaining access to them, or stealing your data today with a goal to unlock it tomorrow.

A zero-knowledge, post-quantum encryption cloud storage service like Internxt can give you peace of mind. And you can use CNET's special offer to get up to 87% off any Internxt paid plan. Claim the offer here.

• Internxt uses zero-knowledge encryption, which means even the company itself cannot access your files.
• It's the first cloud storage provider to implement post-quantum encryption, protecting data against future quantum computer 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, familiar 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 features Internxt AI, a private alternative to ChatGPT and Gemini.

For years, I've used Dropbox, Google Drive and iCloud for cloud storage. Each one does something well. But none of them offer true zero-knowledge encryption by default. That means the companies can technically access your files, and so can hackers.

To get ahead of these concerns, I gave Internxt a try. Here's my experience, along with what you need to know about the latest threats to data privacy.

What makes encrypted cloud storage different and more secure than regular cloud storage?

Services like Google Drive, Dropbox and iCloud encrypt your files during transfer and while they sit on their servers. But the companies hold the encryption keys. This means they can decrypt and view your data whenever they want or need to.

Zero-knowledge encryption flips that model. With Internxt, your files are encrypted on your device before they ever leave it. Internxt never sees your data in readable form. Even if a bad actor were to breach servers, all they would find is scrambled data that is completely useless without your private key.

What everyday consumers should know about quantum computing

A quantum computer is fundamentally different from the computer on your desk. Regular computers process information as ones and zeros, one calculation at a time. Quantum computers use different information units called qubits, which can represent multiple states simultaneously. This allows qubits to solve certain mathematical problems exponentially faster than anything we have today.

The encryption that currently protects your files relies on math problems that are nearly impossible for today's computers to crack. But quantum computers will be able to break those encryption methods in hours instead of centuries.

The "harvest now, decrypt later" threat

One scary scenario is a strategy security researchers call "harvest now, decrypt later." Bad actors today are already collecting encrypted data, stockpiling it and waiting for quantum computers to become powerful enough to unlock it all. According to a 2026 Citigroup report, this is already considered an immediate and systemic threat, especially for data with a long shelf life like personal records, medical files and business contracts.

Internxt is the first cloud storage provider to implement post-quantum encryption using Kyber 512, an algorithm recognized by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). This means the files you upload to Internxt today are protected against both current threats and future quantum attacks.

Think of it this way: Most cloud storage locks your data with a padlock that works fine today, but will be easy to pick in a few years. Internxt uses a system designed to remain unbreakable even after quantum computers arrive.

My experience with Internxt

When I signed up for Internxt, the first thing I noticed was how familiar the interface looked. If you have used Google Drive or Dropbox before, you will feel right at home. The web app has a clean sidebar with Drive, Backups, Shared, Recents, Trash and Desktop sections.

The first thing I stored was a backup codes file for our password manager, which felt appropriate for a service built around security. Then I uploaded several MP4 video files from a recent YouTube shoot. The upload process through the browser was smooth, fast and very straightforward.

I also installed the macOS desktop app, which lets you sync and backup folders automatically, similar to how Dropbox or Google Drive desktop apps work.

Because of the zero-knowledge encryption, Internxt's transfer speeds can sometimes feel slightly slower than something like Dropbox. The post-quantum encryption process happens on your device, so a lot of it will also depend on how powerful your device is. This is a tradeoff of the encryption happening locally on your device before anything uploads. For our use case, where we are backing up important files rather than collaborating in real time, this was fine.

More than just cloud storage

When you subscribe to Internxt, you get what they call a complete privacy suite. Beyond the encrypted cloud storage, your plan includes an encrypted VPN, antivirus protection, a device cleaner, encrypted video calls and encrypted.

The entire bundle starts at around $1.65 per month for 1TB billed annually, and they also offer lifetime plans if you just want to make one lump-sum payment and enjoy Internxt for life. For comparison, I pay significantly more per month for Dropbox alone, without any of those additional privacy features.

The service is also open source, meaning anyone can inspect the code on GitHub, and in an independent audit by Securitum, a leading European cybersecurity firm, no critical vulnerabilities were found.

Consider switching to Internxt

Whether you're a business owner or a consumer who wants more futureproofed data privacy, Internxt deserves a serious look. Between AI agents that can inadvertently leak private information and the looming quantum threat, the question is no longer whether you need encrypted cloud storage, but when.

You can use CNET's special offer to get up to 87% off any Internxt paid plan. Claim the offer here.

Frequently asked questions

What is zero-knowledge encryption?

Zero-knowledge encryption means 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 compelled by a court order or affected by a server breach.

What is post-quantum encryption and why does it matter?

Post-quantum encryption uses algorithms specifically designed to resist attacks from quantum computers. As quantum technology improves, traditional encryption methods like RSA will become vulnerable.

Is Internxt difficult to set up?

Not at all. I found the interface to be clean and intuitive. If you have ever used a cloud storage app, you will be comfortable within minutes. Desktop apps are available for Mac, Windows and Linux, plus 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.