What Filecoin proofs prove
Proof of Replication proves that a storage provider has made a unique encoded copy of data. The copy is tied to that provider, the data, and the sealing process, so the provider cannot simply point to a generic copy and claim credit.
Proof of Spacetime proves continued storage. The network needs evidence not only that data was stored once, but that the provider kept storing it during the promised period.
How Filecoin uses PoRep and PoSt
Filecoin's documentation describes Proof-of-Storage as a system made from PoRep and PoSt. Providers seal data, submit proofs, and continue proving storage through recurring checks.
WinningPoSt and WindowPoSt serve different roles. WinningPoSt is connected to block eligibility for selected providers, while WindowPoSt checks that storage commitments remain valid over time.
Chains that use storage proofs
Filecoin is the major live chain associated with Proof of Replication and Proof of Spacetime. Its proof system is designed for decentralized storage markets, not just generic block production.
This matters for readers because Filecoin's value proposition depends on real storage demand, provider reliability, retrieval quality, collateral, deal markets, and whether proofs reflect useful data storage rather than empty capacity.
Tradeoffs readers should know
Storage proofs are technically powerful but operationally complex. Providers need hardware, sealing capacity, uptime, collateral management, and proof submission reliability.
A good Filecoin review separates three questions: whether data is provably stored, whether users can retrieve it well, and whether the economic market supports sustainable storage demand.