Five Ways to Generate Random File Names Using Python

Creating unique or random file names in Python is useful when saving temporary files, uploading user content, or avoiding name collisions. Here are five different techniques to generate random file names using Python.

1. Using uuid.uuid4()

import uuid

filename = str(uuid.uuid4()) + ".txt"
print(filename)

2. Using secrets

import secrets
import string

chars = string.ascii_letters + string.digits
filename = ''.join(secrets.choice(chars) for _ in range(12)) + ".txt"
print(filename)

3. Using tempfile.NamedTemporaryFile()

import tempfile

with tempfile.NamedTemporaryFile(delete=False) as tmp:
    print(tmp.name)

4. Using random and time

import random
import time

filename = f"{int(time.time())}_{random.randint(1000, 9999)}.txt"
print(filename)

5. Using hashlib with timestamp or UUID

import hashlib
import time

unique_input = str(time.time()).encode()
filename = hashlib.sha256(unique_input).hexdigest()[:16] + ".txt"
print(filename)

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Conclusion

Depending on your needs—security, uniqueness, simplicity, or temporary use—Python offers multiple ways to generate random file names. Consider context when choosing the right approach for your application.