Internet Services

How do I troubleshoot a content delivery network?

Updated 2026-08-14

Quick answer

To troubleshoot a content delivery network (CDN), start by checking the CDN provider's status page for outages, and then verify your DNS settings and cache configurations.

This guide provides steps to troubleshoot issues related to content delivery networks, including checking for outages and verifying configurations.

Steps

  1. 1

    Check CDN Provider Status

    Go to your CDN provider's status page and look for any reported issues or outages.

  2. 2

    Verify DNS Settings

    Access your domain registrar's settings and confirm that the DNS records are correctly configured to point to your CDN.

  3. 3

    Purge CDN Cache

    Log into your CDN dashboard and use the cache purge feature to clear any outdated content.

  4. 4

    Test Connectivity

    Use tools like 'ping' or 'traceroute' to check the connectivity to your CDN endpoints.

Checking CDN Status

Visit your CDN provider's status page to see if there are any ongoing outages or maintenance activities that could affect performance.

Verifying DNS Settings

Ensure that your domain's DNS settings point correctly to the CDN. This may vary by provider, so check your CDN documentation for specific instructions.

Clearing Cache

If content is not updating, try purging the cache from your CDN dashboard. This can resolve issues where outdated content is served.

Watch out for

  • CDN issues may also arise from origin server problems, so check your server status as well.
  • Some features and settings may vary depending on your CDN provider and plan.

FAQ

What should I do if my CDN provider is down?

If your CDN provider is down, consider switching to a backup CDN if you have one, or temporarily serving content directly from your origin server.

How can I check if my DNS changes have propagated?

You can use online tools like 'whatsmydns.net' to check the propagation status of your DNS changes across various locations.

What are common signs of CDN issues?

Common signs include slow loading times, 404 errors for static assets, and outdated content being served.