Content distribution networks (CDNs) are the most promising new techniques for coping with the huge and swiftly growing volume of Internet traffic. In essence, CDNs are groups of proxy-servers located at strategic points around the Internet and arranged so as to ensure that a download request can always be handled from the nearest server. In this, the first reference in the field, a recognized CDN pioneer describes the various technologies involved and explains how they came together to form a working system. With the help of case studies, he covers all the practical basics and provides invaluable implementation schemes.
Describes the various technologies involved and explains how they cam together to form a working system. With the help of case studies, the author covers all the practical basics and provides invaluable implementation schemes.
A thorough exploration of content distribution networks and their applications
The exponential growth of Internet traffic has created a huge demand for techniques that improve the speed and efficiency of data delivery. One of the most important emerging approaches in this area is the use of a content distribution network (CDN), which involves employing several distributed sites to improve the scalability and responsiveness of applications. Written for network operators, ISPs, network architects, researchers, and advanced computer science students alike, here is a much-needed comprehensive overview of the fundamentals of a content distribution network. It describes the components that make up a CDN, delineates the different technologies that can be used within the network, and illustrates how several Web-based applications can be accelerated using a CDN.
The book covers such key topics as:
- Basic architecture for content distribution networks
- Applying CDNs to different business environments
- Schemes to improve the scalability of a server site
- Commonly deployed load-balancing techniques (including domain name—based techniques)
- Performance monitoring
- Managing the integrity and consistency of data
- Different interconnection arrangements within a CDN
- Managing security and trust relationships within the network
- Comparisons with application layer ad hoc content distribution networks such as Napster and Gnutella
Both an "under-the-hood" look at how CDNs work and a guide to practical applications of CDN technologies, Content Distribution Networks: An Engineering Approach is a must-have reference for anyone who operates a Web site, manages an intranet, or needs to master this rapidly emerging, powerful new technology.
About the Author
Dinesh C. Verma is Manager of the Enterprise Networking Group at the IBM T. J. Watson Research Center, Yorktown Heights, New York. He received his PhD from the University of California, Berkeley, and holds more than ten patents in the area of computer networking. A widely published expert in the field, Dr. Verma is the author of Policy-Based Networking: Architecture and Algorithms and Supporting Service Level Agreements on IP Networks. He is also an active member of the IETF and the ATM Forum.
