Implementing a Web Video Backup Tool with OCI Python SDK
Keyless Video Uploads to Private Buckets in Object Storage, Leveraging Instance Principals for API Authentication and Authorisation
In the dynamic world of video production, efficiency and reliability in data storage and distribution are paramount. A recent project I embarked on as a Cloud Specialist was to develop a streamlined, user-friendly backup solution for a video production company. This company, keen on leveraging the cost-effective and scalable nature of Oracle Cloud’s bucket storage, required a system that allowed them to easily share near-final versions of their videos with clients for pre-publication review.
The Challenge: Simplicity and Efficiency
The primary challenge was to create a straightforward solution that required minimal effort from the video producers. While highly skilled in their domain, these professionals preferred a system that didn’t demand an extensive understanding of cloud technologies. They needed an intuitive interface, allowing them to focus on their core work without the complexities of cloud operations.
Choosing the Right Tools
As a Cloud Specialist based in the UK with a burgeoning interest in cloud and platform engineering, I decided to employ Python for this task due to its versatility and familiarity with the language. The solution’s core was a Python SDK designed as a native cloud application. This project, my first in cloud development, was built around a Flask application, a popular web framework known for its simplicity and effectiveness.
Integrating Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI)
A significant aspect of the project was leveraging the capabilities of Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI). The critical component was the ObjectStorageClient class from the OCI Python SDK, which facilitated the storage and retrieval of video files. For those interested in the technical specifics, more information can be found on the OCI Python SDK documentation: https://oracle-cloud-infrastructure-python-sdk.readthedocs.io/en/latest/api/object_storage/client/oci.object_storage.ObjectStorageClient.html#oci.object_storage.ObjectStorageClient.put_object.
Authentication: Secure and Simple
The system utilized OCI’s Instance Principles for authentication, ensuring a secure and streamlined process. This method allowed direct integration with the Oracle Cloud platform, providing a robust yet uncomplicated security framework.
The Solution: A User-Friendly Interface
The final product was a web interface through which the video production team could effortlessly upload their video files for backup. The process was as simple as selecting and uploading the file, with the backend seamlessly handling the storage in Oracle Cloud’s bucket storage. This “keyless” and no-brainer approach meant that the team could focus on their creative work, leaving the technicalities of cloud storage to the system.
Conclusion
This project provided a practical solution for the video production company and marked a significant milestone in my career as a Cloud Specialist transitioning towards cloud engineering and DevOps. It showcased the power of cloud solutions in streamlining complex processes and highlighted the importance of user-friendly interfaces in technology adoption. The successful deployment of this backup application in Oracle Cloud is a testament to the efficiency and scalability of cloud solutions in modern business operations.
