Fastly has patented a method for managing bot detection in a content delivery network. The system involves generating synthetic responses to content requests without valid tokens, requesting proof of work from end user devices, and determining bot activity based on responses. This innovation aims to enhance network security and efficiency. GlobalData’s report on Fastly gives a 360-degree view of the company including its patenting strategy. Buy the report here.

According to GlobalData’s company profile on Fastly, Quantum key distribution was a key innovation area identified from patents. Fastly's grant share as of January 2024 was 60%. Grant share is based on the ratio of number of grants to total number of patents.

Bot detection in content delivery network

Source: United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). Credit: Fastly Inc

A recently granted patent (Publication Number: US11863567B2) outlines a method for operating a cache node in a content delivery network. The method involves identifying content requests without valid tokens, generating synthetic responses that include proof of work requests and fingerprinting attributes, communicating with end user devices, and determining if the requests are associated with bots. If a bot is detected, the method prevents further requests to the origin server. However, if the request is not bot-related, the content is obtained from the origin server and provided to the user. The patent also includes provisions for generating tokens for legitimate users and caching content on the cache node.

Furthermore, the patent details a computing apparatus that implements bot detection in a content delivery network. The apparatus includes storage and processing systems with program instructions for identifying content requests, generating synthetic responses, obtaining user responses, and determining bot association based on predefined criteria. The apparatus can also generate tokens for legitimate users, cache content, and incorporate customer-defined criteria for bot detection. By utilizing proof of work requests, fingerprinting attributes, and customer preferences, the system aims to efficiently manage content delivery while preventing bot-related activities in the network, ensuring a smoother user experience and enhanced security measures.

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