What is edge cache?

Standard caching typically happens on a single server. Edge Caching, however, takes this a step further by storing your website’s content on a global network of servers (often called "Points of Presence" or PoPs).

Instead of a visitor’s browser having to request information from one central "origin" server (which might be thousands of miles away), Edge Caching serves the content from the server physically closest to the user. This "edge" of the network is where the technology gets its name.

How It Works

1. The First Visit: When a user visits your site for the first time, the request goes to the origin server to fetch the data.

2. Storing the Snapshot: As that data travels back to the user, a "snapshot" of the page is saved on the Edge server nearest to them.

3. The Fast Lane: When the next person in that same geographic area visits your site, the Edge server delivers the stored snapshot instantly. The request never needs to travel back to the origin server.

The Key Benefits

1. Drastic Reduction in Latency

By shortening the physical distance data must travel, "Time to First Byte" (TTFB) is significantly reduced. This makes your website feel instantaneous to users, whether they are across the street or across the ocean.

2. Improved SEO Rankings

Search engines like Google prioritize fast-loading websites. By implementing Edge Caching, you improve your site’s core web vitals, which can lead to higher rankings in search results.

3. Better User Experience (UX)

High bounce rates are often tied to slow load times. Edge Caching ensures that your stories, impact reports, and donation pages load smoothly, keeping supporters engaged with your mission.

4. Reduced Server Load

Because the Edge servers handle the majority of the traffic, your main origin server experiences less strain. This provides greater stability during high-traffic events, such as year-end giving campaigns or major news cycles.

Managing Your Cache

Automatic Refreshing

Our system is designed to be "smart." When you update a page or publish a new blog post, the Edge Cache is notified to clear the old version and fetch the new content. This ensures your audience always sees the most up-to-date information.

Dynamic Content & Logged-In Users

Edge Caching is highly effective for "static" content (pages that look the same for everyone). For "dynamic" content—such as a user logged into a dashboard or a personalized shopping cart—the system is configured to bypass the cache. This ensures that sensitive or personalized data remains secure and accurate for every individual user.

Technical Details

• Global Distribution: Content is cached across hundreds of global nodes.

• Full-Page Caching: Unlike traditional CDNs that only cache images and CSS, Edge Caching stores the entire HTML of your pages.

• Smart Headers: We use standard cache headers to communicate with browsers, ensuring a seamless experience across all devices.

Summary

Edge Caching is one of the most effective ways to ensure your organization’s message is delivered quickly and reliably. By bringing your content closer to your audience, we help you remove the technical barriers between your mission and your supporters.