What is CloudFlare and how does it work?

What is CloudFlare, why is it needed and how to configure it

What is CloudFlare? This is an international platform that combines CDN (Content Delivery Network) functionality, as well as protection against the most common cyberattacks. CloudFlare also optimizes site performance, acting as an intermediary between the server and the user, accelerating loading. Additionally, the platform protects the resource itself from malicious traffic and DDoS.

Connecting to CloudFlare makes websites safer, faster, and more stable. The platform's infrastructure currently includes hundreds of data centers located around the world, and the user is automatically connected to the nearest one. CloudFlare is suitable for both small blogs and corporate sites, as well as large online stores, portals, and online services. Of course, there are other platforms with similar functionality, but this one is one of the most popular.

How CloudFlare works: caching, DNS, and attack protection

How does CloudFlare work? It performs several functions at the same time:

• content caching;
  
• used as a DNS proxy;
  
• protects against malicious traffic and other common attack variants.
  

CloudFlare stores copies of static elements of the site (images, styles, scripts) on its servers. And when the user sends a request to the server, part of the data is downloaded from the data center of the "intermediary". This not only reduces the load on the server, but also speeds up access to information. At the same time, conditionally "vulnerable" data is not stored in CloudFlare, so there is no deterioration in security.

The platform also works as a DNS proxy, meaning that when a user enters a website address into the address bar, the request is first sent to a special CloudFlare DNS server, and from there to the resource. The DNS of this platform is in most cases closer to the user than the server itself, so this also reduces delays in the web browsing process.

CloudFlare additionally filters all requests, identifies suspicious activity, and performs user verification. For this, WAF (Web Application Firewall) and DDoS Protection functions are used. If the traffic is suspicious, it will simply not be sent to the resource, no overload will occur, and the site will continue to work normally. So if we take server for rent for hosting a blog, online store, or corporate resource, it is recommended to use CloudFlare, as it provides many advantages.

Main benefits of using CloudFlare for your website

CloudFlare's functionality is constantly expanding. Currently, the platform not only provides security, but also, for example, helps collect analytical data about user requests.

At the same time, setting up CloudFlare for the server owner can be free. The platform has a convenient pricing policy, you can choose the functionality you need, and for most sites, the Free plan will be more than enough.

How to connect CloudFlare: step-by-step process 

How to connect CloudFlare? The process is as simple as possible:

• first you should create an account on the official website of the platform;
  
• enter the basic data of your site, DNS scan will be performed automatically;
  
• get a tariff plan. It is recommended to use Free to start, later you can switch to any of the paid ones depending on the required functionality;
  
• replace the DNS data provided by CloudFlare. This can be done through the control panel of your hosting provider or domain registrar;
  
• wait for DNS update— this takes from 1 to 24 hours.
  
• When the CloudFlare DNS configuration is complete, the corresponding Activate status will appear in the platform's control panel.
  

Configuring DNS in CloudFlare: main principles

Usually, additional CloudFlare settings are not required, the service optimizes everything itself. The main thing is to make sure that all site subdomains, if any, are added to the panel. At the same time, the mail server works by default without using the platform for correct synchronization. All these statuses can be viewed in the control panel. An orange cloud means that traffic passes through CloudFlare data centers, gray - the connection is made directly.
You don't need to change the priority and TTL unless absolutely necessary. The service will automatically optimize them to ensure fast loading and protection against all possible cyberattacks.

Common connection errors and how to avoid them

The most common errors when setting up a CloudFlare domain:

• DNS not updated —You should wait at least 24 hours after adding the site to the platform;
  
• incorrect proxy for mail requests —they must be executed directly (gray cloud in the status);
  
• SSL conflicts: when a site has its own certificate, you should select “Full” in the settings;
  
• Disabling cache for dynamic content —for this you should use Page Rules so that the pages do not "break" and load correctly.
  

Also, users often choose the wrong plan. It is recommended that everyone start with the free plan and then upgrade to Pro or advanced WAF depending on their functional needs.
So, CloudFlare is a powerful and free tool for accelerating, protecting, and maintaining websites. It is convenient, easy to configure, and greatly simplifies resource maintenance. It is recommended to use it to ensure the comfort of visiting the site, as well as to protect traffic and users.
But it is also important to rent a productive server. This service is provided by our company XServer. You can order a VPS or a dedicated server from us. Our advantages: 99.9% uptime, backup services (weekly, daily), affordable tariff plans. We also help with website migration and configuration. Our data centers are located in many countries around the world, so loading a web resource or your online project will always be convenient and fast.