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Core Features and Performance of Cloudflare and Akamai

With a solid grasp of CDN basics covered in the previous article in our CDN Series, we now compare two leading providers, Cloudflare and Akamai. This article highlights their core features and performance metrics, helping you understand how these CDNs cater to different organisational needs. This comparison sets the groundwork for our next discussion on their cybersecurity capabilities.

 

Overview of Cloudflare

Cloudflare is known for its performance and simplicity. It boasts:

– A broad network of servers in over 200 cities

– High availability and low latency

– Automated content optimisation

Cloudflare’s extensive coverage ensures that data doesn’t travel far, enhancing speed and reliability. Its automated content optimisation features streamline web pages, making them load faster without additional configuration.

 

Overview of Akamai

Akamai, one of the oldest CDNs, offers a massive infrastructure with servers in more than 130 countries. It excels in:

– Handling large-scale and high-traffic demands

– Providing advanced, customisable solutions for large enterprises

Akamai delivers a smooth experience even during peak times, making it ideal for organisations with specific needs.

 

Performance Comparison

When it comes to performance:

– Cloudflare: Best for small to medium-sized organisations due to ease of use and automatic optimisations.

– Akamai: Ideal for large enterprises needing detailed customisation and robust performance during high traffic.

Both CDNs offer competitive speeds, but their strengths cater to different organisation sizes and requirements.

 

Conclusion

Choosing between Cloudflare and Akamai depends on your organisation size and needs. In the next article, we’ll explore the cybersecurity capabilities of these leading CDNs.

 

Find out how we can help you choose the right CDN for your organisation

Contact us today on 0113 341 0123 or book a free consultancy session with us here