Introduction to CDNs

A high-performance website is like a great cup of coffee: Both are heavenly when conditions are optimal, but there are small things that can quickly turn them from an enjoyable experience into something that leaves a very bitter aftertaste. With the right tools and preparation, it's possible to create a website (or cup of joe) that can be dependable (like that first sip of coffee in the morning), fast to respond (like a quick shot of espresso), and scalable for many visitors (like that fancy cappuccino machine at Williams Sonoma, the one you casually mention to all your friends as your birthday approaches).

This is the first in a series of columns on the subject of “Caffeinated Drupal,” where I'll cover Drupal performance issues, always being sure to relate the topic to my favorite beverage.

Let's get started, shall we? Grab a steaming cup of java (or iced, if you prefer) and we’ll set out to learn about Content Delivery Networks (CDNs) and how they can give a huge speed boost to your website, with minimal configuration. Not sure which coffee to choose today? I recommend a lovely Ethiopian Sidamo served as a cappuccino — nothing like that powerful fruit flavor with undertones of bittersweet chocolate — topped with a dab of perfectly-foamed milk.

Jeff Sheltren

Jeff Sheltren is an open source advocate; he has been involved with the Fedora and CentOS communities for many years. When not performing infrastructure magic and improving high-performance Drupal sites as part of his day job at Tag1 Consulting, you can probably find him roasting coffee, rock climbing, or watching hockey.