Building Web3 Applications on Decentralized Edge Computing: A Hong Kong Case Study
Last updated
Last updated
The evolution of cloud computing is taking an exciting turn towards decentralization, particularly in the Web3 space. In this technical exploration, we'll dive into how we leveraged a decentralized edge computing platform across Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area (GBA) to deploy and test Web3 applications.
IPFS Node: Handles decentralized storage
Optimistic (OP) Node: Manages Layer 2 to Layer 1 operations
Ethereum Node: Interfaces with the Ethereum blockchain
Each node has both private and public network addresses. Backend transactions occur within the private network, while the public addresses are used for frontend access.
Upload Flow:
Frontend initiates file upload
Backend processes the file and interfaces with IPFS
IPFS generates and returns a unique hash
Smart contract on op-sepolia chain records the transaction
Process completes with frontend confirmation
Verification Flow:
User inputs IPFS hash via frontend
Backend queries OP-node for timestamp verification
Timestamp data is formatted and returned to frontend
Provides proof of existence and timing verification
The file upload process worked successfully:
The file was uploaded to IPFS
The transaction passed through our smart contract
The Optimism node relayed the Layer 2 (L2) to Layer 1 (L1) operations to the Ethereum node
The system successfully returned the IPFS hash
We completed the verification process:
Copied the returned IPFS hash
Sent the verification request to the blockchain through the Optimism node to the Ethereum node
Successfully received the timestamp confirmation from the blockchain
Geographic Distribution: With 30+ edge locations, applications benefit from reduced latency and improved regional access
Decentralized Architecture: True to Web3 principles with distributed storage and computation
Regional Focus: Optimized for Hong Kong and GBA markets to reach global network
Development Flexibility: Supports local development environments that can seamlessly transition to production
This infrastructure demonstrates how decentralized edge computing can effectively support Web3 applications while maintaining the benefits of traditional cloud services. The setup provides a robust foundation for dApps requiring high availability, low latency, and regional compliance.
Use Case: Legal document authentication in Hong Kong's financial sector
Implementation:
Documents uploaded through the Upload flow
IPFS ensures immutable storage
Smart contract on op-sepolia maintains verification records
Verification flow provides timestamp proof
Benefits: Reduces document fraud, provides audit trail, complies with regulatory requirements
Use Case: Digital art marketplace for GBA artists
Implementation:
Artwork files stored via IPFS
Metadata and ownership recorded on-chain
OP node ensures cost-effective transactions
Verification system confirms authenticity
Benefits: Lower gas fees, faster transactions, regional content delivery
Use Case: GBA manufacturing verification
Implementation:
QR codes linked to IPFS hashes
Timestamp verification for production milestones
Smart contracts managing supply chain states
Edge nodes ensuring real-time data availability
Use Case: Cross-border identity verification in GBA
Implementation:
Encrypted identity documents stored on IPFS
Verification flow for identity checks
Smart contracts managing access control
Edge compute ensuring data sovereignty
Use Case: Video streaming platform for Hong Kong content creators
Implementation:
Content stored on IPFS
Edge nodes optimizing content delivery
Smart contracts managing access rights
Verification system for copyright protection
Benefits: Reduced bandwidth costs, improved loading times, content authenticity