Where should I store my NFT metadata and images?
Choose storage that outlasts you: on-chain for small works, content-addressed storage with pinning for most, never just a personal web server.
Store it somewhere that will still work when you have stopped paying attention. Your collectors are trusting that the link inside each token will lead to the right file for a long time.
The main options
- Fully on-chain. The data lives in the contract itself. The sturdiest choice, but costly for large files. Works well for small generative or vector art.
- Content-addressed storage. Systems like IPFS give each file an address based on its content, so a swap is detectable. Files must be pinned by someone to stay available.
- Permanent-storage networks. Pay once for long-term storage. Check how retrieval works before you rely on it.
- Your own server. Easy, but the files vanish if the server does, and you can change them silently. Collectors notice.
Reveal mechanics
If you plan a hidden reveal, decide how the switch happens and whether the base link is locked afterwards. Freezing metadata after reveal builds trust.
Storage is step three in our pre-deployment checklist. This is general guidance for creators, not legal or financial advice. For contracts and licences that matter, talk to a qualified professional.