REST API file upload guidance and best practices

The article by Jennifer Craig provides guidance on effectively using REST API for file uploads, highlighting various approaches and best practices. It discusses different methods including direct file uploads, multipart HTTP requests, and two-step metadata plus upload processes, each suited to different use cases and complexities. Direct file uploads are straightforward for single files, while multipart requests are recommended for multiple files or when file metadata must be included. The two-step approach is more RESTful and suitable for complex workflows but involves multiple steps and potential challenges in error handling and recovery strategies. The article emphasizes the importance of proper error management, including using HTTP status codes and providing detailed error responses to ensure robust API functionality. Security is also a key focus, with recommendations to validate file contents and avoid vulnerabilities such as server-side request forgery (SSRF). Overall, the text underlines the need for clear design and secure practices to facilitate efficient and secure file uploads in REST APIs.