Browser vs. Server Processing
Why some metadata tasks can happen in the browser and others need secure internal engines on the server.
Browser-first when possible
Some simple metadata checks can run in the browser. This can reduce upload needs for supported lightweight tasks.
Secure server processing when needed
PDF, video, audio, Office files, and modern image formats often need specialized internal engines. In that case, the file is uploaded temporarily, processed outside the public folder, and deleted automatically.
Internal engines first
The system tries internal engines first. If one engine fails, the next internal engine is tried. External fallback is optional and only used when enabled by the admin.
What users see
Users should see a calm progress screen, not engine errors. The result summary explains the outcome without exposing internal secrets or API keys.