IPFS pinning is a method used to store and maintain data within the InterPlanetary File System (IPFS), which is a decentralized file storage protocol. Unlike traditional systems that rely on a central server, IPFS enables files to be addressed by their content rather than their location, making the retrieval process more efficient.When a file is added to IPFS, it is split into smaller chunks and distributed across the network. However, this data can become inaccessible if no one continues to host it. Pinning ensures that specific files remain available by keeping a copy of them on a node. This means that the node actively stores the desired content and continually communicates with the network to prevent the files from being garbage collected.Pinning can be performed by any user; however, there are third-party services that provide pinning as a service, guaranteeing data availability. This process is crucial for maintaining decentralized applications, ensuring that important data remains retrievable despite network fluctuations.