Question 1

How to parse a large XML file without memory issues in xmltodict?

Accepted Answer

Use the streaming mode with item_depth and item_callback parameters. For example, xmltodict.parse() with a file object and a callback function processes data incrementally, as shown in the Discogs streaming example.

Question 2

xmltodict vs lxml: which should I use for Python XML?

Accepted Answer

xmltodict is best for quick conversion to dictionaries and ease of use, while lxml is superior for full XML features like XPath, validation, and preserving exact structure. Choose based on your need for simplicity versus fidelity.

Question 3

How to handle XML namespaces with xmltodict?

Accepted Answer

Pass process_namespaces=True and use the namespaces parameter to map URIs to prefixes. The README shows examples of expanding namespaces to full URIs or collapsing them for cleaner output.

Question 4

Can xmltodict preserve CDATA sections?

Accepted Answer

Yes, with the force_cdata parameter. You can force CDATA wrapping for specific elements using a boolean, tuple of element names, or a callable function, as detailed in the selective force_cdata example.

Question 5

Is xmltodict secure for processing untrusted XML data?

Accepted Answer

There are concerns due to the disputed CVE and reliance on Python's unvalidated XMLGenerator. For untrusted input, consider additional validation or use libraries with built-in security features, though the maintainer disputes the CVE.

Question 6

How to convert a dictionary back to XML with pretty printing?

Accepted Answer

Use the unparse() method with pretty=True. For instance, xmltodict.unparse(mydict, pretty=True) outputs formatted XML, but note that combining this with preserved whitespace from parsing may not roundtrip exactly.

xmltodict

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