The backbone behind Cloudflare's Connectivity Cloud

Cloudflare has significantly enhanced its global backbone infrastructure, increasing capacity by over 500% since 2021. As of July 2024, the company operates data centers in 330 cities across more than 120 countries, ensuring a robust presence to meet local regulations and improve service delivery. The backbone utilizes advanced technologies like Dense Wavelength Division Multiplexing (DWDM) for efficient data transfer and is designed to optimize traffic routing, resulting in lower latency and improved performance. Cloudflare employs two primary traffic exchange methods: peering, which allows direct data exchange between networks, and IP transit, a paid service for accessing broader networks. The backbone supports both internal traffic, such as customer data and Cloudflare's own systems, and external traffic from major cloud providers. Recent expansions include the addition of subsea cable capacity to Africa, completing a global backbone ring across six continents. This strategic growth aims to enhance connectivity in regions with less developed infrastructure, reducing latency and improving service quality. Cloudflare's backbone also integrates with services like Argo Smart Routing, which optimizes data paths for better performance. Overall, these advancements position Cloudflare to deliver reliable, high-speed connectivity while supporting compliance with regional data privacy laws.

- Cloudflare's backbone capacity has increased by over 500% since 2021.

- The company operates data centers in 330 cities across more than 120 countries.

- Advanced technologies like DWDM are used for efficient data transfer.

- The backbone supports both internal and external traffic, enhancing performance.

- Recent expansions include subsea cable capacity to Africa, improving global connectivity.