A CDN provides a quick transfer of website elements such as HTML content, JavaScript, CSS files and media such as images and videos which are required to load website content.
The content is not hosted with a CDN and is unable to replace the standard functions of the web server or hosting service. However, it can improve the performance and speed of a website by providing a cache of website content and assets at the network edge, or from servers which are normally located at the exchange points between different networks.
Using a CDN not only caches content to reduce hosting bandwidth but also helps to prevent interruptions in service and improve security. It is a popular choice to use as it reduces some of issues associated with the reliability and uptime that comes with traditional website hosting.
A properly configured CDN can protect websites against common malicious activities, such as Distributed Denial of Service, or DDOS attacks.
As the popularity of CDN services continues to grow, a majority of website content and traffic is being served through a CDN, which includes well known websites such as Apple, Amazon, Disney & Netflix.
