Guides

Guides for direct file URL handoffs

These guides explain the concepts behind file-to-URL workflows so builders can choose the right URL shape before wiring an API or automation.

direct file URLpublic CDN URLpresigned URLtemporary URLheaders

Guide mapAPI-ready

Understand the URL shape before choosing the implementation.

SourceFileRelayPOSTOutputURL

file generated by workflow
  -> direct URL needed
  -> choose hosted URL, presigned URL, or platform link
  -> expire or delete

Start here

Most file URL problems are not upload problems. They are access, header, redirect, expiry, or cleanup problems.

Learn what a direct file URL is, why APIs reject preview links, and how to create public CDN URLs with content type, expiry, and delete controls.

Compare S3 presigned URLs and hosted public file URLs for workflows that need upload, CDN delivery, expiry, deletion, and easier API handoffs.

Learn what public CDN URLs are, when workflow files need them, and how to keep file delivery direct, cacheable, observable, and lifecycle-controlled.

Implementation

Once you know whether the workflow needs a direct URL, a public CDN URL, or storage-level signing, the implementation gets smaller.

Create a direct public URL and file ID from a file in your workflow.

Create public access that expires when the job window ends.

Remove public access after the destination confirms it fetched the file.

FAQ

Which guide should I read first?

Start with the direct file URL guide if another API is rejecting a share link, attachment URL, or Drive link.

Are guides different from docs?

Yes. Guides explain decisions and failure modes. Docs show exact endpoint behavior and request fields.

Do guides apply to no-code automation tools?

Yes. n8n, Make, Zapier, and Pipedream workflows often hit the same URL shape issues as custom code.