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Local storage writes files to a named Docker volume at /data. New installs use it by default. You can keep it after you apply an enterprise license. Object storage (S3, GCS, Azure) is optional.

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Default local volume

./casebender init with no storage variables, and the Desktop Installer with no storage fields filled, set STORAGE_PROVIDER=local. Files persist on a named Docker volume mounted at /data for both web and worker. A bundled ClamAV sidecar listens only on the internal Compose network. The application shows a local-storage banner. To move to S3, GCS, Azure, or certified S3-compatible storage, follow Storage Migration.

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Limits

  • One host holds both the application and the files. Keep replica count at one. Losing the volume loses attachments and evidence.
  • There is no provider versioning, object lock, legal hold, or cloud audit control.
  • Multiple replicas need an external shared filesystem with separately qualified consistency. Do not treat a host path as a hidden object store.
  • Container-local and anonymous volumes can be lost when a container is replaced.
  • Filesystem permissions and backup consistency are host-specific.
Do not enable MinIO.

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Operating a local volume

  • Run web and worker on the same host and path.
  • Encrypt the volume and back it up independently of the application.
  • Monitor capacity, permissions, checksum failures, and backup restoration.
  • Plan migration to S3, GCS, or Azure when you need more than one host or provider retention controls.
Follow Storage Migration using copy-first, non-destructive transfer and SHA-256 verification.