Content Delivery Networks (CDNs) and Global Speed
A content delivery network, or CDN, is a global network of servers that stores copies of your website's files close to your visitors. The result is faster loading times wherever your audience happens to be.
If your customers are spread across regions or countries, a CDN is one of the simplest ways to improve their experience.
The Problem a CDN Solves
Data travels at a finite speed, so a visitor in Australia loading a site hosted in London waits longer than someone in Manchester. A CDN keeps a cached copy nearby, so the distance — and the wait — shrinks dramatically.
What You Gain
- Faster page loads for international visitors.
- Less strain on your main servers, lowering costs.
- Protection against traffic spikes and some attacks.
- Better search rankings, as speed is a ranking factor.
What It Caches
CDNs are best at serving static files — images, stylesheets, scripts and videos. Dynamic, personalised content still comes from your main servers, though modern CDNs can accelerate that too.
| Content type | Served by | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Images and downloads | CDN edge | Fast, near the user |
| Stylesheets and scripts | CDN edge | Cached and reused |
| Personalised pages | Main servers | Always up to date |
If you need a hand with any of this, your Progressive Robot delivery team is ready to help. Raise a ticket from the Support area of your client portal or speak to your account manager and we will guide you through the next steps.