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Multi CDN

Published Date: 31 March 2023

What is Multi CDN?

Multi-CDN, short for Multiple Content Delivery Networks, combines different CDNs from more than one provider into a single network.

When installed and implemented correctly, Multi-CDNs can provide greater flexibility, availability, and performance compared to a single CDN. Multi-CDN approaches are also good at reducing latency and increasing flexibility in terms of choosing separate providers for different use cases.

The Working of Multi-CDNs

Multi-CDNs operational workflow involves routing traffic selectively over multiple CDNs in a single network. Different routing decisions are made on the basis of different Multi-CDN strategies and implementations.

Common strategies include:

  • Static DNS: In this approach, static DNS entries must be set up or configured for different CDNs in the multi-CDN setting. This method is relatively simpler but requires manual intervention in different situations.
  • Managed DNS: It follows the same framework as static DNS. The only difference is that Managed DNS adds a layer of intelligence to the earlier approach. A lot of manual work is removed because of the smart routing technology.
  • Round-Robin: This is a simple approach where a request is sent directly to the next CDN in the queue.
  • Geolocation: Here, the criteria for choosing CDNs depend on the geolocation factors. For every request, the CDN where the PoP is geographically closest to the user will respond first.
  • Variable-Driven Load Balancing: Here, routing decisions are based on various variables like cost, performance, location, weights, etc.

Pros of Multi-CDN

  • Improvement in performance.
  • Greater resilience.
  • More flexibility because of the greater degree of control available.
  • Offers greater vendor management and cost control features.

Cons of Multi-CDN

  • Multi-CDN approaches are more complicated and involve complex processes.
  • The single CDN approach is much cheaper than the Multi-CDN approach.
  • Only larger applications that are more sensitive to downtime are good for Multi-CDN.


Related Terms

MP4

MP4 or MPEG-4 Part 14 is one of the (oldest released in 2001) and most commonly used container formats for delivering video files.

MKV

The MKV video file is a royalty-free Matroska multimedia container format launched in December 2002. It can carry a multitude of video, audio, or subtitle files in a single file which facilitates easy storage and playability.

MVPD

A multichannel video programming distributor (MVPD) is a type of video service provider that delivers multiple TV channels to subscribers through a single source.

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