How to choose the right CDN provider in a turbulent marketplace

In a CDN marketplace marked by provider shutdowns, price hikes, and shifting priorities, reliability is survival. If your current provider folds, you're not just facing downtime—you're losing revenue and customer trust. For the world’s top 2,000 companies, the total annual downtime cost is $400 billion, eroding 9% of profits. Choosing the right CDN partner isn’t just about performance, it’s about protecting your business from disruption.

In this guide, we show you how to identify early warning signs, evaluate providers, and switch before your business takes the hit.

Red flags: signs that it’s time to consider a new CDN provider

If you’re experiencing any of the following issues with your current CDN provider, it might be time to reconsider your current setup.

• Slower load times: If you’ve noticed lagging performance, your CDN provider may be running on outdated infrastructure or not investing in upgrades.
• Rising costs: Increasing prices without additional value? A higher bill and the same service is a major red flag.
• Uncertainty about long-term service: Look for clear communication and a demonstrated commitment to infrastructure investment, essential a market where providers frequently consolidate and shift focus.

Your CDN should scale with you, not hold you back. Prioritize a partner who can evolve with your needs and support your long-term success.

5 must-haves when choosing a CDN partner

Not all CDNs are created equal. Before switching, compare providers across these five key factors.

• Performance: Check real-world performance benchmarks and global coverage maps to understand how a CDN will serve your audience in key regions. Throughput (the amount of data that can be successfully delivered from a server to an end user over a specific period of time) and low latency are non-negotiable when choosing a CDN provider.
• Pricing: Before signing up, it’s essential to know what is and isn’t included in the price in case there are hidden fees. Look for predictable billing, volume-based tiers, and transparent overage charges to avoid surprise costs. Avoid vendors who lure you in with low rates, then add hidden overage fees.
• Security: Choose a CDN that offers built-in protection out of the box: DDoS mitigation, TLS, WAF, and API security. Bonus points for customizable policies that fit your stack. Strong security features should be standard for CDNs to combat advanced cyber threats.
• Edge computing: When it comes to Edge computing, understanding the power of this strategic CDN add-on can give you a significant advantage. Look for CDN providers that offer flexible edge compute capabilities, so you can process data closer to users, reduce latency, and improve response times.
• Future-proofing: The CDN market’s volatility makes partnering with providers with long-term stability vital. Pick a provider that’s financially solid, tech-forward, and committed to innovation—not just sticking around to get acquired.

Choosing a new provider may feel like a challenge, but the long-term payoff—improved performance, lower risk, and a future-ready infrastructure—makes it well worth it. By picking a CDN partner that meets your needs now and for the future, you’ll receive fast, personalized, and secure experiences that truly stand out.

What makes Gcore CDN different?

Gcore CDN isn’t just another CDN, we’re your long-term performance partner. Here’s what we offer:

• Global scale, blazing speed: Our network spans 180+ edge locations across 6 continents, optimized for low-latency delivery no matter where your users are.
• Transparent, flexible pricing: No hidden fees. No lock-in. Just fair, flexible pricing models designed to scale with your growth.
• A stable partner in a shaky market: While others pivot or fold, Gcore is doubling down. We’re investing in infrastructure, expanding globally, and building for the next wave of content and edge use cases.

If you’re ready to make the switch, we’re here to help. Get in touch for a free consultation to discuss your specific needs and tailor a transition plan that suits your business. For more insights about choosing the right CDN for your business, download our free CDN buyer's guide for a more in-depth look at the CDN landscape.

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