In an exclusive interview today, I had the opportunity to speak with Cloudflare co-founder and CEO Matthew Prince. Cloudflare may not be a household name, but it plays a crucial role in protecting websites from cyberattacks. With over 20 percent of the entire web relying on their network infrastructure, Cloudflare is essentially the first line of defense against malicious actors looking to disrupt some of the biggest websites on the planet.
Matthew has been leading Cloudflare for nearly 15 years, making tough decisions on content moderation in an industry where free speech is a cornerstone value. As an infrastructure company, Cloudflare serves as a crucial shield for websites, ranging from news organizations to more controversial platforms like The Daily Stormer and 8chan.
During our conversation, we delved into the complexities of protecting speech on the internet, especially in regions where government regulations differ. Matthew shared insights on Cloudflare’s role in conflict zones like Ukraine and the potential risks of an increasingly restrictive internet landscape.
Cloudflare operates one of the world’s largest networks, spanning over 300 cities and 120 countries, with data centers strategically located to ensure fast and secure connections for its users. Whether you’re an individual developer or a Fortune 500 company, Cloudflare offers a range of services to enhance online security and performance.
Despite the technical nature of its services, Cloudflare’s mission is to make the internet a better place for all users, regardless of their size or budget. By providing top-grade security, performance, and reliability, Cloudflare aims to empower businesses and individuals to navigate the digital world with confidence.