To provide an image forming apparatus which can improve the security of image data by storing the image data to be distributed.

The image forming apparatus capable of making communication with a plurality of personal computers comprises a connection means for connection with hard disks of the personal computers. Furthermore, the image forming apparatus includes a division means for dividing image data for one page to produce a plurality of divided data items and a storage means for storing the plurality of divided data items while distributing them over the registered hard disks. Thus, image data for one page are stored while being distributed over the hard disks of the plurality of personal computers, thereby improving security of image data.

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