According to the invention, a content delivery network (CDN) for delivering content objects over the Internet is disclosed. The CDN includes a point of presence (POP), a content object request interface, and a routing function. At least one POP is coupled to a plurality of full-route networks. The content object request interface receives requests for content objects for delivery to a number of end users using a plurality of terminal networks. The routing function that routes content objects in at least two modes, where a first mode routes content objects based upon a first route path chosen based upon delivery efficiency, and a second mode routes at least some content objects using a second route path when at least of a portion of the first route path reaches a level of use. The first and second route paths egress to different full-route networks.