What is Edge Network?
A distributed network of servers located in many cities around the world to serve content closer to users.
Why It Matters
Edge networks reduce latency by processing requests at the server nearest to each user.
Real-World Example
Cloudflare's edge network has servers in over 300 cities, so users almost always connect to a nearby one.
“Understanding terms like Edge Network matters because it helps you have better conversations with developers and make smarter decisions about your software. You do not need to be technical. You just need to know enough to ask the right questions.”
Related Terms
CDN
A network of servers around the world that stores copies of your content closer to users
Edge Functions
Code that runs on servers close to your users around the world, rather than in one central location
Edge Computing
Processing data at locations close to the user rather than in a centralised data centre.
Latency
The time delay between a request and its response
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Related Terms
Edge Functions
Code that runs on servers close to your users around the world, rather than in one central location
CDN
A network of servers around the world that stores copies of your content closer to users
Latency
The time delay between a request and its response
Edge Computing
Processing data at locations close to the user rather than in a centralised data centre.
Server
A computer that runs continuously to handle requests, store data, and serve your application to users
Serverless
A way to run code without managing your own servers, where the cloud provider handles everything