A CDN is an acronym for Content Delivery Network. A content delivery network, or CDN, is a system of servers that distribute content on the internet based on geographic location. This allows for faster access to content no matter where you are located geographically. The result? Faster downloads and greater reach!

With this in mind, when looking to use a CDN for your business or organization you should consider these three things: proximity of the server locations, content delivery options and security. The more servers close to your location are better because it means lower latency – that is, less time waiting for something to load on screen. Content delivery options give an idea if the network can deliver how much data there might be at any given moment. Security measures ensure customers’ data remains safe while using the service.

Benefits of using CDN

• There are several ways that a CDN can improve performance of a website: by caching content close to end users so it doesn’t need to be shipped from remote locations; by serving cached static content rather than live video streams, for example; and through techniques such as shaping (deliberately slowing down some types of Internet traffic) and peering (connecting networks in a way that optimizes the flow of data).
• CDNs serve as intermediaries between host websites or applications and end users in order to improve performance and reliability.
• CDNs are highly cost effective for businesses with large content distribution needs or high traffic volume, especially when they need to provide global reach and add security through geographic diversity.
• CDNs offer a higher level of security because they are not on the same network as the customer’s own servers, thus reducing their exposure to vulnerabilities and data theft.
• Some CDN providers also offer additional services, such as DDoS protection.

Do my website needs a CDN?

If you are concerned about slow page loads times and/or don’t have a geographically close data center to your visitors, then yes, you probably need a CDN.

A CDN will not only help with your page load times, but will also help with the delivery of your files. Some CDNs offer SSL or DDoS protection to ensure that all of your content and website are secure from outside attacks.

CDN providers can also provide you with reports about traffic and usage to make sure everything is running as it should be on their end before reaching out for any assistance.