The InterPlanetary File System (IPFS) is a peer-to-peer protocol for storing and sharing files across a distributed network. Instead of using a centralized server with a fixed URL, IPFS identifies content by its cryptographic hash, meaning the same file always produces the same address regardless of where it is stored. In the crypto and NFT space, IPFS is commonly used to store metadata and media files in a decentralized manner, reducing reliance on single points of failure.