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S3 Cleanup Command - write script for managing and cleaning up outdated S3 objects

Python/Codingeasy0.5 min readPremium

**Why S3 Cleanup:** Storage costs grow; lifecycle policies handle automated deletion but custom logic (retention by prefix, exclude patterns) needs scripting. **Implementation:** list_objects_v2 with paginator (handles 1000+ keys). Filter by LastModified. delete_objects in...

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Frequency
Low
Asked at 1 company
Category
179
questions in Python/Coding
Difficulty Split
127E|24M|28H
in this category
Total Bank
1,863
across 7 categories
Asked at these companies
Moonfare

Why This Question Matters

This easy-level Python/Coding question appears frequently in data engineering interviews at companies like Moonfare. While less common, it tests deeper understanding that distinguishes strong candidates.

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Expert Answer
100 words

Why S3 Cleanup: Storage costs grow; lifecycle policies handle automated deletion but custom logic (retention by prefix, exclude patterns) needs scripting.

Implementation: list_objects_v2 with paginator (handles 1000+ keys). Filter by LastModified. delete_objects in batches of 1000 (max per request)—reduces API calls.

Cost/Safety: Each LIST = $0.005 per 1000; DELETE is free. Add dry-run mode. Use versioning + MFA delete for production. Consider S3 Lifecycle (Transition/Expiration) instead of scripts for standard retention—cheaper and automatic.

paginator = s3.get_paginator('list_objects_v2')
for page in paginator.paginate(Bucket=b, Prefix=p):
keys = [o['Key'] for o in page.get('Contents',[]) if o['LastModified'] < cutoff]
if keys:
s3.delete_objects(Bucket=b, Delete={'Objects':[{'Key':k} for k in keys]})

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According to DataEngPrep.tech, this is one of the most frequently asked Python/Coding interview questions, reported at 1 company. DataEngPrep.tech maintains a curated database of 1,863+ real data engineering interview questions across 7 categories, verified by industry professionals.

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