What is the primary function of a content delivery network (CDN)?

The primary function of a content delivery network (CDN) is to distribute content globally to improve access speed. CDNs achieve this by strategically placing servers in various locations across the globe, allowing users to access data from a server that is geographically closer to them. This geographical proximity reduces latency and loading times, enhancing the overall user experience on websites and applications. By caching copies of content like images, videos, and webpage elements on these servers, CDNs enable faster delivery of data, especially during peak traffic times or in regions where bandwidth is limited.

The other choices, while they have their own importance, do not accurately define the primary role of a CDN. For instance, distributing software updates globally pertains to update management and deployment rather than the core function of content delivery. Enhancing cybersecurity measures is a significant aspect of many internet services, but it is not the main objective of a CDN—though some CDNs do offer security features as an added benefit. Lastly, providing cloud storage options relates more to data storage solutions rather than content distribution, which is the defining characteristic of a CDN.