COS, or Cloud Object Storage, enables direct file downloads in the browser by providing a direct link to the file stored in the cloud. This is achieved through the use of signed URLs, which are time-limited and secure URLs that allow users to access or download specific objects in the COS bucket without needing to log in or authenticate again.
For example, when a user requests to download a file from COS, the server can generate a signed URL that includes all the necessary permissions and expiration time. The user's browser can then use this signed URL to directly download the file, bypassing the need for previewing it within the browser.
This feature is particularly useful for scenarios where users need to quickly share or download large files without going through an intermediate preview step. It enhances user experience by streamlining the file access and download process.
In the context of cloud services, Tencent Cloud's COS offers this capability, allowing users to efficiently manage and distribute their files. By leveraging signed URLs, Tencent Cloud COS ensures that files can be securely and directly accessed by authorized users, improving the overall usability and security of cloud storage.