What is a 'content delivery network' (CDN)?

A content delivery network (CDN) refers to a network of distributed servers located in various geographic regions that work together to deliver web content to users more efficiently. The primary function of a CDN is to cache content, such as images, videos, and HTML pages, on multiple servers close to where users are situated. This geographic distribution minimizes latency, as data can be accessed from a nearby server rather than having to travel long distances from a single origin server.

When a user requests content, the CDN determines the best server to fulfill that request based on the user's location, leading to faster load times and improved website performance. This technology enhances the user experience, especially for dynamic websites with high traffic, by reducing the loading time and ensuring that content is delivered reliably and consistently.

While the other options might describe different types of services or functionalities related to web management, they do not embody the core focus of a CDN, which is specifically related to the efficient delivery of content based on user location.