Back to Object Storage FAQs
HELP CENTER · FAQObject Storage1 min read

How should I set an expiration time for a signed object URL?

A signed URL grants access to an object for a limited period, so its expiry should balance usability and exposure. Choose a duration that covers the intended task, while recognizing that anyone who obtains the URL may use it until it expires or is otherwise invalidated.

IaGenify
Object Storage

Match expiry to the use case

Short-lived links fit one-time downloads or user actions that happen immediately. Longer transfers or delayed workflows may need more time, but should use a controlled renewal path rather than unnecessarily long-lived URLs.

Check clock skew, client download duration, and whether the URL can be revoked before expiry in your provider’s model. Avoid placing signed URLs in public pages, analytics events, or logs where they can be copied.

Validate permissions and delivery

Ensure the signed request grants only the intended object and method, and test that changing the key, method, or relevant parameters invalidates the signature. Do not treat an unpredictable URL as a replacement for authorization design.

Monitor usage and issue a fresh link when needed after rechecking the user’s permissions. If exposure is suspected, use the provider-supported invalidation or credential-rotation process and review access logs.

Back to Object Storage FAQs