Overview

Many Web browsers have the ability to accept content that is compressed using the deflate algorithm which is documented in RFC 1950, 1951, and 1952. Because of this, it is possible for content servers to send their content in a compressed format that reduces the amount of necessary transmission bandwidth.

Array Application Front End appliances work as a drop-in tool that enables the automatic compression of content using the deflate algorithm when a browser supporting this function is detected. By automatically performing compression, administrators are not required to alter applications to gain the benefits offered by inline compression.

Browser Compatibility
While most browsers do support the deflate algorithm, it is a feature that cannot be assumed. To accommodate for this, the Array Operating System examines each request header and notes what content types a browser is capable of accepting. If a browser cannot support deflated files, ArrayOS will automatically send non-deflated files to the end user.

Because both deflate and non-deflate capable browsers are supported, ArrayOS ensures that any modern browser (such as Internet Explorer and Netscape Navigator) can work with a Web site using compression.