There’s a lot of work that goes into loading a website. We may not realize what’s happening behind the scenes. We merely see the result – and how long it took to get there.
For example, a WordPress website has several components. There’s the core software that serves as the foundation. In addition, there’s a database that houses site content and settings. And we can’t forget about themes and plugins. They all require server resources.
When a page loads, all of these pieces must work together. This process occurs each time someone visits your website.
The more visitors you have, the harder your web server must work. Performance can suffer as a result.
Caching is a tool for improving your website’s performance. A variety of website data can be temporarily stored and served to users. The result is decreased server load, which also improves page speed.
Let’s take a look at the caching options offered by Pressable. There are different types of cache, each with a unique purpose. We’ll show you how to use them to get the best performance from your website.
The Types of Cache Offered by Pressable
Your Pressable account includes several types of cache. Together, they can increase every aspect of your website’s performance. Here’s a quick rundown of the available options:
Edge Cache
What It Does
Edge cache stores your website’s pages and static assets (CSS, image, font, and JavaScript files). Storage across a global network of edge servers means faster Time to First Byte (TTFB).
Page cache is served directly from the closest available server. The result is less waiting for visitors – regardless of their location.
Increased performance is only part of the story. Edge cache also improves site availability.
User requests can be served from the edge cache – even if your website is experiencing issues. This method helps to guard against downtime.
You’ll get all the benefits of a traditional content delivery network (CDN) – plus the ability to serve your site’s cached page content (Batcache).
Who It’s For
Every website can benefit from edge caching. Not only does it increase performance, but it also safeguards site availability.
We recommend that ALL websites use this feature.
How to Use It
To enable Edge Cache on your site, visit the MyPressable Control Panel and Settings for a specific site. From there, click on the Performance tab and locate the Edge Cache section:
Object Cache
What It Does
Object cache improves database performance by storing frequently accessed data from your website in memory. This method reduces database queries and response times.
Who It’s For
Websites that use a database will benefit from object caching. Thus, WordPress recommends it for every site.
Even relatively simple websites can see a performance boost. For example, let’s say your site’s home page includes a list of upcoming events. Without object caching, WordPress would need to query the database for every visitor.
Object caching stores this query in memory – reducing the number of “hits” to your site’s database. You’ll see faster page loads as a result.
How to Use It
Pressable enables object caching by default. Your website is already enjoying the benefits!
How to Measure Site Performance
You can measure the impact that caching has on site performance. Several tools exist for this purpose. And it all starts within your MyPressable Control Panel.
Is Your Cache Primed?
There are various methods and reasons for flushing your website’s cache. However, you may notice a drop in performance afterward. That’s because the next set of cached assets hasn’t been “primed” (or built) yet.
In that case, you’ll want to prime the site’s cache before testing. Doing so will ensure that all caches are in effect. The test results will more accurately reflect site performance.
There are a couple of ways to prime your site’s cache:
1. Visit your website and navigate to various pages. Make sure you’re logged out of the site – cache doesn’t apply to logged-in users.
Or…
2. Conduct performance tests multiple times in a row. Your site’s cache will start building after the first test.
Either method will help you achieve the best results. If you’re unsure of your cache status, test again!
Pressable Site Performance Reports
We offer free monthly site performance reports. They measure various metrics along with tips for improving your scores.
How to Use It
To access a Site Performance Report, do the following:
- Navigate to your MyPressable Control Panel at https://my.pressable.com/
- Click on the site you’d like to get a report for
- Click on the Performance tab
- Scroll down to the Performance Metrics section
Check out our Site Performance Reports article for more information.
Google PageSpeed Insights
Google’s PageSpeed Insights tool allows for more frequent performance testing. It’s helpful when making adjustments to your site’s caching strategy.
For example, you might perform tests before and after enabling Pressable’s edge cache. You’ll see both areas of improvement and where more work is needed.
How to Use It
To access Google PageSpeed Insights, do the following:
- Vist the PageSpeed Insights website
- Enter your website’s URL
- Click on the Analyze button to generate a report
Do More with the Pressable Cache Management Plugin
The Pressable Cache Management Plugin gives you more control over your site’s caching. Use it to manage various aspects of caching and tweak performance to fit your needs.
The plugin includes plenty of handy features, including:
- Exclude specific pages from being cached;
- Extend the life of your site’s page cache (Batcache);
- Flush individual posts or pages;
- Purge various types of cache;
- Set cache to flush when software or content is updated;
Cache Tips and Tricks
There are many benefits to website caching. However, it’s not one-size-fits-all. Sometimes, site performance isn’t what you expect. And some websites may benefit from greater customization.
We’ve created several guides to help you get the most from website caching:
General Website Performance
- Benchmarking WordPress for Better Results and Less Pain
- Defining Server-Side Caching: An In-Depth Look
- How to Read and Understand WordPress Hosting Benchmark Results
- Tips for Troubleshooting Website Performance Issues
Cache Management
- How to Flush WordPress Site Cache and Purge the CDN
- How to Modify Your Cache Control Header in Pressable
- The Pressable Cache Management Plugin
Edge Caching
Object/Query Caching
Page Caching (Batcache)
- How does Batcache page caching work?
- How to prevent Batcache page caching on Pressable
- Modifying Cache Times in Batcache