Akamai vs Limelight CDN: What are the differences?

Introduction:

Akamai and Limelight are two popular Content Delivery Network (CDN) providers that help improve website performance and deliver content more efficiently. While both Akamai and Limelight offer similar services, there are significant differences between the two.

1. Scalability and Global Network:

Akamai has an extensive global network of servers, ensuring high scalability and redundancy. With hundreds of thousands of servers strategically located around the world, Akamai can easily handle a massive amount of traffic and provide efficient content delivery to users in different regions. On the other hand, Limelight has a smaller global network compared to Akamai, which may limit its scalability and ability to handle high traffic demands in certain regions.

2. Performance Optimization Techniques:

Both Akamai and Limelight employ various performance optimization techniques to accelerate content delivery. However, Akamai has developed and implemented several industry-leading techniques, such as dynamic caching, prefetching, and real-time content optimization, which enhance website speed and user experience. While Limelight has similar optimization techniques, it may not offer the same level of sophistication and customization as Akamai.

3. Security Capabilities:

Akamai is well-known for its robust security features, offering protection against DDoS attacks, web application vulnerabilities, and other types of cyber threats. With advanced security measures like SSL/TLS encryption, web application firewalls, and bot management, Akamai provides a reliable defense mechanism for websites. While Limelight also offers security features, its capabilities may not be as extensive or comprehensive as Akamai's.

4. Pricing and Contract Flexibility:

The pricing structure and contract flexibility can vary between Akamai and Limelight. Akamai generally operates on a costlier side, given its established reputation and advanced features. They often require longer-term contracts with minimum traffic commitments. Limelight, on the other hand, may offer more flexible pricing options and shorter-term contracts to accommodate the needs of smaller businesses or those with unpredictable traffic patterns.

5. Customer Support and Service Level Agreements (SLAs):

Akamai is known for its high-quality customer support, offering dedicated account managers and 24/7 technical assistance. They also provide comprehensive Service Level Agreements (SLAs) guaranteeing uptime and performance. While Limelight also offers customer support and SLAs, the level of support and the specific terms may not be as extensive or reliable as Akamai's.

6. Value-Added Services:

Akamai provides a wide range of value-added services beyond just content delivery, such as cloud security, media delivery, and web performance monitoring. These additional services allow businesses to leverage Akamai's expertise in various areas and consolidate their service providers. Limelight, while offering some additional services, may not have the same breadth and depth of offerings as Akamai.

In Summary, Akamai offers a more extensive global network, advanced performance optimization techniques, robust security capabilities, but comes with higher pricing and longer contracts, while Limelight may offer more flexibility in pricing and contracts, but with a smaller global network, fewer value-added services, and potentially less comprehensive customer support.