Akamai Enhances User Experience for Large File Downloads
Akamai Technologies, Inc., announced the launch of its Large File Download Optimization technology, an integral feature of the Akamai Electronic Software Delivery and Media Delivery solutions that supports the optimization and delivery of increasingly large files, such as DVD software and high-definition video content. To date, Akamai's global platform has been leveraged by leading software, anti-virus, gaming, and media & entertainment companies to deliver many of the largest online files.
As file sizes continue to grow due to enhanced functionality, improved graphics, and richer media content, Akamai offers a unique method for delivering these files and ensuring a positive user experience. The key technology behind Large File Download Optimization is a system for storing, retrieving, and delivering large files as a cluster of individual file pieces. This allows Akamai's customers to increase file sizes in response to market demand, while in parallel leveraging the full Akamai distributed global network to provide a quicker, more seamless download experience for the end-user.
File size growth is driven by many factors, including broadband penetration, larger inexpensive storage devices, and high-definition video. Many companies are now finding it feasible to deliver full DVD images (4-5 GB) over the public Internet. As HD-DVD and Blu-Ray formats become popular, it is inevitable that file sizes will grow to 50 GB or more.
"We've released a technology that dramatically enhances the delivery, and therefore user experience, of large files of all sizes," said Mike Afergan, chief technology officer, Akamai. "As part of today's digital media experience, consumers are simply expecting access to richer and more broadband-intensive content. Leveraging our highly distributed architecture, Akamai has developed a unique approach to optimizing software and entertainment downloads, while creating a platform that will support the future growth in file sizes by businesses in all sectors."
