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How can a CDN reduce latency for global users?
Asked on Nov 20, 2025
Answer
A Content Delivery Network (CDN) reduces latency by caching content at strategically distributed edge servers closer to users, minimizing the distance data must travel. This approach enhances load times and reliability for global users by leveraging multiple geographic locations.
Example Concept: A CDN works by distributing copies of static content (like images, stylesheets, and scripts) across a network of servers located around the world. When a user requests content, the CDN delivers it from the nearest server, reducing the time it takes for data to travel across the internet. This proximity decreases latency, improves load times, and enhances the user experience, especially for users far from the origin server.
Additional Comment:
- CDNs also help balance load during traffic spikes by distributing requests across multiple servers.
- They can provide additional security features such as DDoS protection and secure token authentication.
- Popular CDN providers include Cloudflare, Akamai, and Amazon CloudFront.
- Dynamic content can also benefit from CDNs through caching strategies like edge-side includes (ESI).
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