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Why is CDN used?

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#1

I am not able to understand why CDN is used by uber. Uber mostly has dynamic data, there is no use for a CDN.

#2

Hi @Nitin_Kaushik !!
Uber uses a Content Delivery Network (CDN) primarily for optimizing the delivery of various types of content and data to its users, even though much of the data is dynamic. While it’s true that Uber’s core service involves real-time updates and dynamic data, CDN usage can still provide several benefits:

  1. Static Content: Uber’s platform includes static content such as images, JavaScript files, CSS files, and even some frequently used app assets. These elements can be cached on a CDN to reduce server load and decrease latency for users by serving these resources from servers geographically closer to them.

  2. Improved Load Times: By distributing static assets and frequently accessed data to edge servers in different locations, a CDN can significantly improve the load times for these elements, enhancing the overall user experience.

  3. Scalability: Uber’s services can experience sudden spikes in demand, especially during peak times or special events. CDNs help distribute the load across multiple servers and data centers, ensuring that the platform can handle increased traffic without performance degradation.

  4. Redundancy and Reliability: CDNs often have multiple points of presence (PoPs) around the world. This redundancy improves the reliability of content delivery. If one server or data center experiences issues, the CDN can route traffic to another location, reducing downtime.

  5. DDoS Mitigation: CDNs can provide protection against Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks by absorbing and mitigating malicious traffic at the edge, preventing attacks from reaching Uber’s primary infrastructure.

  6. Reduced Bandwidth Costs: CDNs can help reduce the bandwidth costs for delivering content. Data is cached and served from edge servers, which can be more cost-effective than sending the same data from central data centers to users across the globe.

  7. Security: CDNs often include security features such as SSL/TLS encryption and web application firewalls (WAFs), which can help protect user data and services from various online threats.

While Uber’s core ride-hailing and real-time services are dynamic, the overall user experience involves a combination of dynamic and static elements. CDNs are a valuable tool for optimizing the delivery of the static components and improving the platform’s overall performance, scalability, and reliability, contributing to a seamless user experience.
I hope it helps. Happy Learning :blush: