> ## Knowledge Base Index
> Fetch the complete knowledge base index at: https://help.quortex.io/sitemap.xml
> Use this file to discover available pages before exploring further.
> Pure-Markdown content can be obtained by appending a '.md' suffix to the content URLs listed in the sitemap (without the trailing slash).

# Quortex Switch fundamentals

### **Simplified Multi-CDN Management**
**Quortex Switch** is a multi-CDN management solution that leverages the **Content Steering standards** for both **DASH** and **HLS** video streams.
By using these standards, Quortex Switch enables **automatic and seamless CDN switching**, with **no action required from the end user**.

All configurations are done either using the user interface or the [API](https://web.quortex.io/documentation/switch/)
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### **Audience Segmentation for Smarter CDN Usage**
Through its intuitive **user interface** and **API**, Quortex Switch lets you segment your audience to optimize CDN usage for both **performance** and **cost efficiency**.
You can create audience segments based on:
* **Geolocation**
* **Network (ASN)**
* **Device type**
* **Streaming protocol**
Each CDN is then **registered** and **linked to a specific pathway** within the decision tree.
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### **Building Your Decision Tree**
The interface guides you step-by-step through:
1. Creating audience segments
2. Registering your CDNs
3. Associating CDNs with the relevant segments
Once your tree is built, you’ll see a structured view like this:
![Quortex Switch decision tree](https://storage.crisp.chat/users/helpdesk/website/-/9/8/4/5/9845223dbfb4e800/tree_u5d0kj.png =773xauto)You can get more details on how to build your decision tree are available here: [Build your audience tree](https://help.quortex.io/en/article/build-your-audience-tree-11rj46n/)
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### **Automatic Operation – No Manual Actions Needed**
Once the tree is configured, **the system is fully operational**. It automatically returns the optimal CDN order based on user data.
✅ **No need to start or stop anything manually.**
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### **How Players Interact with the System**
Any player streaming content with a manifest that includes the Quortex Switch steering server will:
* **Periodically connect to the server** (every few seconds or minutes)
* **Check for updated CDN recommendations**
* **Switch CDNs dynamically** if needed, without interrupting playback
More details on the players implementing content steering [here](https://help.quortex.io/en/article/supported-players-for-content-steering-z2n9o7/)