Push CDN

Definition

A push CDN is a type of Content Delivery Network where content is uploaded directly to the CDN's servers by the content provider. This method contrasts with pull CDNs, where the content is fetched from the origin server upon request. Push CDNs are typically used for large files or frequently updated content, as they ensure that the content is distributed across various servers before user requests come in.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In a push CDN model, content providers need to actively upload their files to the CDN, which can include videos, images, and other media types.
2. Push CDNs are beneficial for live streaming or situations where content updates need to be immediate and reliable across global locations.
3. Because the content is preloaded on the CDN servers, users experience reduced latency since data is retrieved from a nearby server rather than the origin site.
4. Push CDNs may involve higher upfront management, as content must be maintained and updated on the CDN by the provider.
5. This model is often used in scenarios like software downloads and media distribution, where controlling content delivery speed is crucial.

Review Questions

• How does a push CDN differ from a pull CDN in terms of content management and user experience?
  • A push CDN requires content providers to actively upload their files to the network, ensuring that all requested data is already stored on the CDN servers. In contrast, a pull CDN fetches data from the origin server on demand when users make requests. This difference impacts user experience significantly; with push CDNs, users can access data more quickly since it’s already preloaded on nearby servers, leading to reduced latency and faster delivery times.
• Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of using a push CDN for distributing large media files.
  • The primary advantage of using a push CDN for large media files is that it enables quick access since the content is preloaded on multiple servers around the globe. This reduces latency and enhances user experience during high-traffic events. However, a disadvantage is that managing updates can be resource-intensive, requiring constant oversight from content providers to ensure that all files are current and correctly uploaded to the CDN.
• Evaluate how push CDNs can impact the overall performance of web applications that rely heavily on real-time data delivery.
  • Push CDNs can greatly enhance the performance of web applications requiring real-time data delivery by ensuring that all necessary content is preloaded and readily available across distributed server locations. This means lower latency and quicker response times for users accessing real-time information. The proactive nature of push CDNs means that they can handle spikes in traffic more efficiently compared to pull CDNs, which may face delays if many users attempt to access data simultaneously from the origin server.

Related terms

Pull CDN: A pull CDN retrieves content from the origin server when a user requests it, caching the content on the CDN servers for future requests.

Content Delivery Network (CDN): A network of distributed servers that delivers web content to users based on their geographic location, enhancing speed and availability.

Cache: A storage layer that temporarily holds frequently accessed data to improve retrieval speed and reduce load on the origin server.