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python requests upload large file

Narkw Brahma

Narkw Brahma

• 1 min read

Python Requests: Uploading Large Files

Uploading large files through Python Requests is possible but requires careful handling of the request, especially if the file is too large. Before we proceed, let's define what Python Requests is and what it does.

What is Python Requests?

Python Requests is a module that enables HTTP requests in Python. It abstracts the complexities of making requests behind a simple API, allowing developers to send HTTP/1.1 requests with ease.

Uploading Large Files

When uploading large files, we need to prepare our request object to handle large files to avoid server timeouts or failed uploads. Here are a few ways to upload large files using Python Requests:

Using Chunked Encoding

The first method is by using chunked encoding. This method involves breaking the file into smaller chunks and sending them one at a time. This ensures that the server can handle the request without timing out or crashing.


import requests

with open('large_file.mp4', 'rb') as f:
    requests.post('https://example.com/upload', data=f)

Using the Stream Option

The second method is to use the stream option. This method involves sending the file in a stream of small packets, rather than sending it all at once. This reduces the load on both the client and server, ensuring that the file is uploaded without errors.


import requests

with open('large_file.mp4', 'rb') as f:
    requests.post('https://example.com/upload', data=f, stream=True)

Using Multipart Encoding

The third method is by using multipart encoding. This method involves breaking the file into smaller chunks and sending them one at a time, but in a format that can be processed as a single file by the server. This method is useful when uploading files with metadata such as images.


import requests

with open('large_file.mp4', 'rb') as f:
    requests.post('https://example.com/upload', files={'file': f})

Conclusion

Uploading large files can be a daunting task, but Python Requests has made it simple and easy. By using the methods above, you can upload files of any size without worrying about server timeouts or failed uploads.

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