A content delivery network, or content distribution network (CDN), is a geographically distributed network of proxy servers and their data centers (Wikipedia). Basically, it speeds up the process of loading web pages by reducing the distance between your computer and the server where files are stored.
The use of CDNs is now ubiquitous. But, according to Skypack (a JavaScript CDN), "Despite the last 10 years of progress, webpage speeds have not improved over time." Matthew Phillips, an engineer at Skypack, joins the show to teach us more!
Why is that happening? How are CDNs changing, and how is the Skypack CDN helping Node.JS be compatible with browsers? And most importantly, what's coming next in the future of CDNs?
Spoiler alert: Do we all become roving human CDNs?
Here are the links mentioned in this episode: