Presigned URLs vs Proxy Uploads: When to Use Each for File Storage
A software engineer has outlined the key trade-offs between presigned URLs and proxy-based file uploads for web applications. Presigned URLs, where the browser uploads directly to object storage via a short-lived credential, are recommended for most SaaS use cases because they avoid loading the app server with large payloads, reduce costs, and lower latency. Proxying uploads through a backend server is justified only in specific scenarios, such as compliance-mandated virus scanning, server-side file transformation before storage, or strict per-tenant quota enforcement. Security best practices for presigned URLs include having the backend generate the object key, setting short expiry windows, and keeping stored objects private with signed download links. Skipping these precautions, the author warns, effectively creates an unsecured public file drop with no access controls.
This is an AI-generated summary. ShortSingh links to the original source for the complete article.
Discussion (0)
Log in to join the discussion and vote.
Log in