WordPress is undoubtedly the most used CMS powering thousands of websites on the internet. The open-source CMS offers a variety of features to make visually appealing and functional websites and blogs. But what if you want to add a feature like a file or URL uploader on your site that isn’t built into WordPress? Fortunately, WordPress allows users to download and install file uploader and URL file uploader plugins to extend the content management system’s functionality. In fact, a URL file uploader is a must-have feature of the majority of WordPress sites. By integrating a URL file uploader on your WordPress site, you can enable your end-users to upload files on your website via URL.
However, there are plenty of file uploader plugins for WordPress. So which one should you choose? Filestack File or URL Uploader WordPress plugin is an excellent option with its numerous invaluable features.
In this article, we’ll explore the features of the Filestack URL uploader plugin for WordPress and the endless options you get by installing the plugin. We’ll also walk you through the process of integrating the plugin and show you why Filestack is one of the best file-uploading sites.
What is a URL uploader?
A URL uploader is like a file uploader that enables users to upload files via a URL, such as images, videos, and documents. For example, say a user wants to upload an image file on your website from the internet or Google instead of your local device or cloud storage. They can use the direct download link of the image to upload it instead of first downloading it on their device and then uploading it on your website. Similarly, they can use a video URL such as YouTube URL to upload videos.
Alternatively, a URLfile uploader can allow users to upload files from their local device and then provide a direct download link or URL. Users can then share the link with others, such as friends or colleagues, to enable them to download files. This makes it easy to share large files quickly. The URL file uploader basically saves your files in cloud storage and generates direct links so users can download files via that link.
URL file uploader plugins for WordPress
There are a handful of file upload and URL upload plugins for WordPress. Some of the top plugins include Filestack, WPForms, WordPress File Upload, File Upload Types by WPForms, and Gravity Forms. You can even create a custom URL upload files plugin for your WordPress. However, custom plugin development is time-consuming and can be challenging for users with little know-how of programming or coding. Thus, it’s best to choose an existing plugin that is tested, reliable, and can be customized.
Introducing the best URL uploader plugin for WordPress
Filestack File and URL Uploader WP plugin is the best choice with its stunning UI and plenty of invaluable features.
Let’s first discuss the features of the URL file uploader plugin and how to integrate it. Then we’ll explore how it can open up a stream of options for you to store and manage the uploaded files with Filestack.
Features of Filestack plugin
Using the Filestack upload plugin, you can add Filestack File Uploader or URL file Uploader to your WordPress page or website. The uploader will allow your users to upload files, like images and PDFs, to your site. It supports several; integrated sources and enables users to upload files from various sources, including:
- Local device
- Cloud storage
- Webcam and video cam
- Google Drive
- Dropbox
Filestack File Uploader also works as a URL Uploader, enabling users to upload files directly via URL. It also supports file upload via Google Image Search and Google Photos.
Supports multi-file uploads
When users use it as a simple drag-and-drop or file uploader, they can upload multiple files simultaneously. There is also a ‘Minimum Files’ setting that ensures a specific number of files are ready before starting the upload process. This feature enhances handling multiple files. And it is really helpful for sites where users need to upload lots of files at once, such as portfolio sites. Filestack WordPress Uploader also enables users to upload large files (up to 5TB), allowing them to transfer and share large files via URL.
Customizable interface
Customization is essential for enhancing the look of your uploader, and Filestack recognizes this. You can change the look of the uploader and choose from various uploader styles using the ‘Display Mode’ parameter to match the look and theme of your website.
Flexible functionality with shortcodes
The Filestack WordPress plugin supports a large set of shortcode parameters for flexible functionality. For instance, you can change the language of the uploader, define image transforms, etc.
Image transformations
The Filestack File Picker or File URL file uploader supports a range of image transformations, such as crop, circle, and rotate. Thus, you can enable your users to transform their images and give them a more personal touch before uploading them to your site.
Integrating WordPress Plugin for File Management
Here are the key steps to integrating the Filestack upload plugin into your WP site:
1) First, you need to install the plugin. There are two ways to do so. You can install it through your WP (WordPress) admin console. Go to the ‘Add Plugins’ section and search for ‘Filestack WordPress Upload.’ Then click Install now. You can also download the plugin directly from the WordPress Filestack Plugin page and then upload the plugin folder to the following directory: /wp-content/plugins/.
2) Next, activate the plugin from the plugin menu in WordPress.
3) Go to the plugin’s settings page and input your Filestack API key. You can get your API key for free by signing up with Filestack.
4) Add the shortcode [filestack] in the blog post or web page where you want to display the upload button.
5) You can also use the Filestack button found in the Media section to upload files.
6) Finally, click ‘Insert Into Post’ to insert the CDN resource.
Combining URL uploader and Filestack for enhanced file handling
Once you have integrated the uploader into your WP site, you can use Filestack services for file management.
Cloud storage integrations
Once you upload files with Filestack uploader, Filestack stores them to an S3 bucket. While the S3 bucket is internally managed, the Filestack WP uploader also allows you to integrate your own cloud storage solution, such as:
- Amazon S3
- Microsoft Azure
- Dropbox
- Rackspace
- Google Cloud Storage
Having all your files in cloud storage makes managing and organizing them easier.
Enhancing user experience with CDN
A CDN or Content Delivery Network essentially refers to a network of servers and data centers distributed across the globe. CDN caches files or content in the server nearest to the end-user, thereby reducing latency and improving load times. Filestack makes use of CDN to enable you to deliver content quickly and efficiently to your end users. Once a user uploads a file with the Filestack WordPress plugin, you get a CDN URL that you can use to deliver or download files.
Security
Filestack WordPress plugin is designed for files’ safety. Its “Disable Integrity Check” tool accelerates uploads on devices with a slower internet connection. And it doesn’t affect the security of the files being uploaded.
The plugin also supports Filestack security keys, such as “api_key,” “signature,” and “policy.” With these tokens, only authorized users can access Filestack apps, keeping your file uploads/user uploads safe and secure. Additionally, you can also choose to allow or not allow manual retries for failed uploads. This adds another layer of security against potential cyber-attacks.
What are the best practices for URL file uploaders?
- Ensure the uploader has an attractive and user-friendly UI.
- The uploader should show the file preview so users can confirm they’ve uploaded the right file.
- Enable large file uploads.
- Enable users to transform files before uploading them.
- Deliver the content via CDN URL to ensure fast delivery.
- Take security measures to ensure users’ files are safe and secure.
Conclusion
A URL file uploader is a tool for uploading files via URL. It can also enable users to upload files from their local device or cloud storage and then generate a download link to share files with others. If you’re looking to add file upload functionality to your WordPress site, the Filestack WordPress plugin is a reliable and secure option. The plugin supports a range of useful features, such as a customizable interface, multi-file uploads, large file uploads, image transformation, etc. Moreover, it also allows you to use Filestack file management and handling services, such as cloud storage and CDN. Also check out our WordPress tutorial for Filestack for a complete guide.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is a URL upload?
URL upload means uploading files using a URL instead of from your local device or cloud storage.
What is a URL used for?
A URL is essentially a unique identifier that enables us to locate a file or resource on the web/internet.
How to get the URL of an image?
If an image exists on the web, you can right-click on it and copy the image address.
Sidra is an experienced technical writer with a solid understanding of web development, APIs, AI, IoT, and related technologies. She is always eager to learn new skills and technologies.
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