High Performance Networking for the Cloud

Cloud applications move data across regions and services. To keep users fast, networking must be predictable and efficient. High performance networking combines architecture, protocol choices, and the right cloud features to reduce latency and increase throughput.

Start with an architecture that minimizes hops and avoids the public internet where possible. Use private networking, VPCs with clear subnets, and direct connections or peering to keep traffic on trusted paths. Within a region, keep services close to users and balance loads to avoid congestion. Clear routing helps packets reach their destination faster and with fewer surprises.

Key levers

  • Topology: private links, peering, and direct connections
  • Fast paths and offloads: SR-IOV NICs, DPDK, RDMA where supported
  • TCP tuning: congestion control (BBR), window scaling, MSS optimization
  • Observability: end-to-end metrics, tracing, and per-path dashboards
  • Edge and caching: CDNs, edge caches, and smart DNS routing

Example scenario: a microservice API serving global users benefits from colocated regions, fast DNS, and a small edge cache. With private backbone, latency drops between service calls, even under load. Health checks steer traffic away from troubled paths, keeping response times steady.

Practical steps

  • Map data flows and identify critical paths with simple diagrams
  • Measure with iperf3, ping, and application-level pings to set baselines
  • Tune TCP: enable window scaling, try BBR, and configure reasonable MSS
  • Leverage hardware offloads and NIC features where safe to do so; test performance impact
  • Improve observability: per-service latency, loss, and saturation dashboards; set alerts

Regular reviews of network performance help catch drift after changes, provider updates, or new workloads. With clear architecture and steady measurement, cloud networking becomes a reliable pillar for fast apps.

Key Takeaways

  • Plan for low latency and predictable throughput from the start
  • Choose private, well-routed paths and fast hardware features where possible
  • Observe, test, and iterate to keep performance high