Is it necessary to convert a file into a "Buffer or Readable stream" before adding it to IPFS?

Question

I've uploaded some files using js-ipfs without converting it into Buffer or Readable stream, and it works just fine.

since IPFS converts the file into blocks anyway, why use buffer/stream!

what are the pros and cons of this?

Answer 1

That depends on the service you use to upload the files. They may have different requirements, but the end result is the same.

Using buffers/streams is mostly useful if you're dealing with lots of data and/or in an environment where memory is limited. Streaming data means you don't transfer all at once, but send smaller pieces all the time. That wait the recipient doesn't need to accept a big file at once, which may drain resources.