Why it matters

Edge compute enables new UX. Understanding shapes latency-sensitive apps.

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The architecture

Deploy code to edge locations globally.

Runs on request; typically JS or Wasm.

Edge compute optionsCloudflare WorkersV8 isolatesCloudFront FunctionsAWS lightweightLambda@EdgeAWS full LambdaV8 isolates start in microseconds vs Lambda's cold start milliseconds
Edge compute variants.
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How it works end to end

Cloudflare Workers: V8 isolates, extremely fast start.

CloudFront Functions: microsecond execution, limited features.

Lambda@Edge: full Lambda at edge, more capability + higher latency.

Use cases: auth, redirects, personalization, A/B testing.