Definition
A Content Delivery Network CDN is a geographically distributed group of servers that work together to provide fast delivery of Internet content. CDNs cache content, such as web pages, images, and videos, closer to end users, reducing latency and improving load times. They achieve this by storing copies of data on servers located in various points of presence POPs around the world. This distributed architecture significantly enhances website performance and user experience, especially for global audiences. For example, a popular streaming service uses a CDN to ensure smooth video playback for users worldwide. While similar to a load balancer in distributing traffic, a CDN's primary focus is content caching and delivery speed across a wide geographic area. Understanding CDNs is crucial for IT professionals and is commonly tested on certifications like Security+, Network+, and AWS Certified Solutions Architect Associate.