Why I built Drivebase. An open-source unified file manager.

Drivebase began in 2025 as Xile, a Telegram file manager, born from the need to organize saved messages. It evolved into a unified storage layer, integrating various providers like Google Drive and Dropbox through a single interface. Drivebase allows users to browse, upload, download, and manage files across these different platforms, simplifying file management. The application offers features beyond basic management including an end-to-end encrypted vault for secure file storage, ensuring data privacy. Rule-based smart uploads automate file routing to designated storage providers based on user-defined rules. Drivebase provides a unified search function that indexes metadata across all connected storage, simplifying file discovery. Cloud-to-cloud transfers facilitate direct file movement between providers, eliminating local downloads and re-uploads. Granular API keys enhance security by allowing restricted access to storage platforms. The application is designed for self-hosting via Docker, accommodating personal use, home labs, and team-based storage management. Drivebase provides extra functionality, such as smart search across providers for efficient file location and Cloud-to-Cloud transfers.