I’m having trouble with the Google Drive API. I’m trying to get audio files from my Drive using the files.get() method. Here’s what I’m doing:
let audioTrack = new Audio(`https://drive-api.google.com/v3/files/${trackId}?alt=media&key=${myAPIKey}`)
It works fine at first. I can fetch a few songs (each about 50-200MB) without any issues. But after about 20 requests, I start getting a ‘403 Forbidden’ error.
I’ve tried:
- Adding a 10-second delay between requests
- Using the Node.js SDK
- Trying different auth methods
- Restarting my router and computer
- Using a different browser
- Clearing my browser history
- Flushing my DNS cache
Nothing seems to help. The error used to mention something about automated requests, but now it’s just a plain 403.
Has anyone run into this before? Any ideas on how to fix it? I’m pretty stuck here and would really appreciate some help!
I’ve experienced similar issues when working with the Google Drive API. In my experience, the 403 error usually indicates that your requests are being throttled due to exceeding rate limits. I solved this by implementing exponential backoff—starting with a 1-second delay and doubling it after each failed attempt. Additionally, grouping your requests into batches helped reduce the overall number of calls. Checking quota limits in the Google Cloud Console and, if necessary, distributing the load using multiple API keys can also alleviate the issue.
hey, ran into that too. looks rate limitin, so try exponen backoff - start at 1 sec and double delay if fails. batching also helps, and diff api keys if many users. hope it works!
I’ve experienced similar issues when working with the Google Drive API. The 403 error you mentioned is almost always linked to rate limiting. Google enforces these limits to manage excessive automated requests, which is why even a small application can hit the ceiling after several calls.
One approach that has worked well for me is to implement exponential backoff. Start with a short delay—say around one second—and double the waiting time after each failure. This strategy can help prevent the rapid succession of requests from triggering the rate limits.
Another alternative is to group your requests where possible, which lowers the total number of calls made to the API. In scenarios where multiple users are involved, utilizing separate API keys or service accounts might distribute the load more effectively.
In summary, a combination of exponential backoff and optimizing the number or grouping of requests could alleviate the issue. It’s a matter of fine-tuning both the rate and distribution of your API calls.