MEGA

Mega is a term with multiple uses in language and technology. In the metric system, mega- is a decimal prefix denoting 10^6 (one million). It is used with units such as megabyte (MB) and megawatt (MW) and derives from the Greek megas, meaning large.

MEGA, stylized as MEGA, is a cloud storage and file hosting service established in 2013 by Kim Dotcom and colleagues after the shutdown of Megaupload. It is operated by MEGA Limited and emphasizes privacy and security, offering end-to-end client-side encryption so files are encrypted on the user’s device before upload. The service provides free storage and paid subscription plans, withaccess via a web interface and dedicated desktop and mobile apps. It also supports sharing encrypted links to managed recipients.

Security and privacy are central to MEGA’s design. Encryption keys are intended to stay with the user, and server-side data is stored in an encrypted form. The provider markets itself as offering strong privacy protections, though, as with any cloud service, privacy depends on proper key management, device security, and relevant legal data requests.

Historically, MEGA emerged as a successor to Megaupload and has operated under the MEGA Limited entity in New Zealand, navigating regulatory and legal scrutiny related to its predecessor. Since its launch, MEGA has remained in operation, expanding features and regional availability for users seeking encrypted cloud storage and secure file sharing.