---
openapi: get /dwn/v1/ipfs/{cid}
title: Retrieve IPFS Content
description: Fetch distributed content using its Content Identifier
og:title: IPFS Content Retrieval
---

<Info>
  Content Identifiers (CIDs) are cryptographic hashes that uniquely identify content in IPFS.
</Info>

## CID Resolution

### Resolution Process
1. Query local IPFS node cache
2. Search connected peers
3. Fetch from distributed network
4. Return raw content data

### CID Formats
- **CIDv0**: Legacy format (starts with 'Qm')
- **CIDv1**: Modern format (starts with 'bafy')

Example CIDs:
```
CIDv0: QmYwAPJzv5CZsnA625s3Xf2nemtYgPpHdWEz79ojWnPbdG
CIDv1: bafybeigdyrzt5sfp7udm7hu76uh7y26nf3efuylqabf3oclgtqy55fbzdi
```

## Performance Considerations

<Tip>
  Pin frequently accessed content to your local IPFS node for faster retrieval.
</Tip>

### Caching Strategy
- Hot data: Keep pinned locally
- Warm data: Cache with TTL
- Cold data: Fetch on demand

<Warning>
  Large files may take time to retrieve if not cached locally or on nearby peers.
</Warning>

## Error Handling

Common errors:
- **404**: CID not found in network
- **408**: Timeout fetching content
- **507**: Local storage full