Cloudflare

Cloudflare is a US-based company that provides content delivery network (CDN), DDoS mitigation, internet security services, and domain name server services. It acts as an intermediary between website visitors and hosting providers. Cloudflare is currently newsworthy due to its involvement in several international controversies. First, the relaxation of internet restrictions in Iran, following a severe blackout, highlights Cloudflare's role in global internet connectivity, though the article only mentions an internet analyst from Kentik. Second, Cloudflare is threatening to withdraw its services in Italy, including support for the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, after being fined €14 million by the Italian communications watchdog for allegedly failing to adequately address online piracy. This potential withdrawal could significantly impact Italy's internet infrastructure and the Olympics. These events underscore Cloudflare's significant influence on internet access and security globally, and the challenges it faces in balancing its responsibilities with regulatory pressures and ethical considerations.