Content Delivery Network (CDN)

A Content Delivery Network (CDN) is a network of distributed servers used to deliver content such as web pages, images, videos and scripts more efficiently to end users. The primary purpose of a CDN is to reduce website load times and improve the user experience by delivering content closer to the user's geographic location.

How does a CDN work?

CDNs work by storing a copy of website content on multiple servers around the world. When a user makes a request to the website, the request is not sent to the origin server, but to the nearest CDN server. This server delivers the content requested by the visitor more quickly as it is located closer to their location.

Advantages of content delivery networks

1. Faster loading times:
   By distributing content to servers that are geographically closer to the user, loading times can be significantly reduced.
2. Improved performance:
   CDNs optimize the transfer of content and thus ensure better performance and availability of the website - especially with high traffic on the site.
3. Reduced server load:
   By distributing traffic across multiple servers, the load on the origin server is reduced, increasing the scalability and reliability of the website.
4. Protection against DDoS attacks: Many CDNs offer protection against so-called Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks by filtering and distributing incoming traffic.

Data protection and GDPR

When using a CDN, it is important to comply with data protection regulations, especially with regard to the GDPR. Since CDNs transmit data to servers in different geographical regions, personal data may be processed by the CDN. Website operators should:

1. Review data protection agreements:
   Ensure that the CDN provider complies with data protection agreements that meet the requirements of the GDPR.
2. Conclude a data processing agreement:
   Conclude a data processing agreement (DPA) with the CDN provider to regulate the processing of personal data.
3. Adapt data protection guidelines:
   Adapt the website's privacy policy to provide information on how the use of the CDN affects data processing.