ADC stands for Application Delivery Controller. It is a network component that acts as an intermediary between users and applications, with the main task of optimizing, securing, and accelerating the delivery of applications over a network. ADCs handle functions such as load balancing, SSL termination, traffic optimization, and application security.
Think of an ADC as a conductor in an orchestra: it ensures that all the instruments (network traffic) play in harmony and that the music (application experience) flows seamlessly. Without the conductor, things can become chaotic – with an ADC, you gain control, flow, and security in the delivery of digital services.