Serverless Edge Computing with Akamai EdgeWorkers

Introduction

In this tutorial, we will explore how to leverage Akamai EdgeWorkers for serverless edge computing. Akamai has developed a platform that allows developers to create and deploy JavaScript functions at the edge, providing low-latency responses and scalability for web applications. This guide will walk you through the basics of setting up and using EdgeWorkers, ensuring you can maximize their potential for your web properties.

Step 1: Understand EdgeWorkers

• What are EdgeWorkers?

  • EdgeWorkers are serverless functions that run on Akamai's edge network.
  • They allow for quick processing of requests, enabling low-latency responses for users worldwide.

• Benefits of Using EdgeWorkers

  • Reduced server load and improved performance.
  • Enhanced scalability and flexibility in deploying functions.
  • Ability to execute custom logic closer to the user, minimizing latency.

Step 2: Setting Up Your Environment

• Create an Akamai Account

  • Sign up for an Akamai developer account if you haven’t done so.

• Install Required Tools

  • Ensure you have Node.js installed on your machine.
  • Install the Akamai CLI by running the following command:

    npm install -g akamai-cli
    

• Set Up Your CLI

  • Authenticate your CLI with your Akamai credentials:

    akamai configure
    

Step 3: Create Your First EdgeWorker

• Initialize Your Project

  • Create a new directory for your EdgeWorker project and navigate into it:

    mkdir my-edgeworker
    cd my-edgeworker
    

• Create the EdgeWorker File

  • Create a JavaScript file for your EdgeWorker (e.g., worker.js).
  • Write your function to handle requests. Here’s a simple example:

    export function responseProvider(request) {
        return new Response('Hello from EdgeWorker!', {
            status: 200,
            headers: {
                'Content-Type': 'text/plain'
            }
        });
    }
    

Step 4: Deploy Your EdgeWorker

• Package Your EdgeWorker

  • Use the Akamai CLI to package your EdgeWorker:

    akamai edgeworkers package
    

• Upload and Deploy

  • Deploy your EdgeWorker using the CLI:

    akamai edgeworkers upload
    akamai edgeworkers deploy
    

Step 5: Test Your EdgeWorker

• Access Your Function

  • Once deployed, access your EdgeWorker through the designated URL provided by Akamai.

• Check the Response

  • Ensure you receive the expected response, such as "Hello from EdgeWorker!".

Conclusion

Akamai EdgeWorkers provide a powerful way to execute serverless functions at the edge, enhancing the performance and scalability of your web applications. By following the steps outlined in this tutorial, you have learned how to set up your environment, create, deploy, and test your first EdgeWorker. As a next step, consider exploring more complex functions and integrations to fully utilize Akamai's capabilities for your projects.