While SA`s Internet bandwidth capacity is growing, this is not translating into faster content delivery because of "last-mile congestion" - high traffic volumes on the connection that runs from the Web server to the user.
So says Christo Venter, GM of the Data Management Division at IS (Internet Solutions), South Africa`s leading e-business infrastructure provider, who points out that the only way to speed up delivery is to store the content nearer to the user.
"And the only way to do that is to use caching technology - where service providers such as IS host Web site content, and bring it as close as possible to the point of delivery," he explains.
"Caching can boost the download speeds of a variety of data-intensive Internet applications such as hosted application services, streaming and video and audio. It will become an imperative for companies no longer prepared to be part of the world wide wait."
In a move to meet demand for faster content delivery, IS has launched a Reverse Cache service. It`s part of a new range of Data Management infrastructure tools which are designed to help in the management and speedier delivery of Web-based content, data backup and recovery, streaming and storage.
IS Reverse Cache solution is specifically designed for IS clients who host Web or application servers at the end of a leased line. IS installs and configures a dedicated cache appliance which it hosts, so that the cached content is closer to the end user. It also protects the server during surges or peak load times "With IS Reverse Cache, browsing and transaction processing from a client`s site are quicker and the user receives a faster, superior service," Venter says.
There is also a cost-saving factor. Because Reverse Cache removes data and connection loads from the leased line and application servers, there is a real saving in terms of bandwidth and hardware costs "These are expensive commodities. By moving the content to the caching server, clients will be able to minimise the upgrade requirements for both. In Europe it has been found that more than 40% of bandwidth cost relates to the last mile," adds Venter.
Another new Data Management service launched recently by IS, is an online remote backup and recovery tool for corporate desktops and laptops, enabling companies to regain control of critical business data.
The new IS Backup service will back up business data to a redundant storage system hosted by IS, using the client`s leased line. It is fully automated, encrypted and totally convenient to administer and use, thus reducing business risk, saving time and relieving the workload from already overburdened IT departments.
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