# Storj
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Storj is a platform, token, and suite of decentralized applications that allows you to store data in a secure and decentralized manner. Your files are encrypted, shredded into little pieces called 'shards' and stored in a global decentralized network of computers. Only you have access and the ability to retrieve all shards from the network, decrypt them, and finally re-combine all file pieces into your original file.
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## To start using Storj
See our documentation at [Storj docs](https://docs.storj.io/docs).
## To start developing Storj
The [community site](https://storj.io/community.html) hosts all information about building storj from source, how to contribute code
and documentation, who to contact about what, etc.
### Install VGO
```Go
go get -u golang.org/x/vgo
```
### Install non-go development dependencies
In order to develop on Storj, you will need to have the `protobuf` compiler installed on your system.
1. Grab the latest release for your system from [here](https://github.com/google/protobuf/releases).
1. place the `protoc` binary in your path. i.e.
```bash
mv $HOME/Downloads/protoc--/bin/protoc /usr/local/bin
```
### Install go dependencies
Use vgo to install both dev and non-dev dependencies.
1. Install development dependencies
```
make build-dev-deps
```
1. Install project dependencies
```bash
# in project root
vgo install
```
If you want to build Storj right away there are two options:
##### You have a working [Go environment](https://golang.org/doc/install).
```
$ go get -d storj.io/storj
$ cd $GOPATH/src/storj.io/storj
$ make
```
##### You have a working [Docker environment](https://docs.docker.com/engine).
```
$ git clone https://github.com/storj/storj
$ cd storj
$ make docker
```
For the full story, head over to the [developer's documentation].
## Support
If you need support, start with the [troubleshooting guide], and work your way through the process that we've outlined.
That said, if you have any questions or suggestions please reach out to us on [rocketchat](https://storj.io/community.html) or [twitter](https://twitter.com/storjproject).