WordPress Caching: Types and How to Choose the Right One
Caching is the process of storing data temporarily to speed up access to it in the future. In WordPress, caching can be used to improve website speed by storing static files, database query results, and other data.
There are several ways to enable caching in WordPress, including using plugins, the built-in WordPress caching feature, or a CDN service.
The following caching types are server-side, meaning they are stored on the WordPress server:
- Database Cache – stores the results of database queries. This is one of the most efficient caching types, as database queries can be resource-intensive.
- Object Cache – stores data such as users, posts, and so on. This is a useful caching type for large sites with a lot of active users.
- OpCode Cache – stores code that has been compiled into an opcode file. This is a useful caching type for sites with a lot of JavaScript code.
- Page Cache – creates a static version of every page on the site. This is the most efficient caching type in terms of speed, but it also requires the most resources.
The following caching types are client-side, meaning they are stored in the user’s browser:
- Browser Cache – stores static files such as CSS, JavaScript, and images. This is a useful caching type for all sites.
- Cookie Cache – stores data such as user settings, preferences, and other data. This is a useful caching type for sites that require login.
Choosing the right caching type depends on a number of factors, including:
- Site size – large sites with a lot of static content can benefit from all caching types, especially Page Cache.
- User traffic – sites with high user traffic can benefit from Database Cache and Object Cache.
- Specific site needs – some sites may need specific caching types, such as Cookie Cache.
When you are configuring caching, it is important to consider the following factors:
- Cache lifetime – it is important to set how long the cache will last before it is deleted. Too long of a lifetime can cause outdated content to be stored, while too short of a lifetime can cause the site to reload every time.
- Cache exceptions – it is important to set which pages or files will not be stored in the cache. For example, you may not want to store the cache of pages that contain dynamic information, such as surveys or chats.
Caching is an effective tool for improving website speed. By choosing the right caching types and configuring them properly, you can make your site faster and more efficient for your users.
In addition to the caching types listed above, there are a few other caching options available for WordPress. These include:
- CDN caching – a CDN (Content Delivery Network) is a network of servers that deliver static content from a location that is closer to the user. This can improve website speed for users who are located far from the WordPress server.
- Image optimization – optimizing images for the web can reduce their file size and improve website speed.
- Gzip compression – Gzip compression is a way of compressing files that can improve website speed by reducing the amount of data that needs to be transferred.
Hubbyhost offers web hosting plans using most types of caching with the help of HubbyX3Cache.
HubbyX3Cache – a combination of OpCode Cache, Redis Cache and Fastgi Cache
By using a combination of these caching options, you can further improve the speed of your WordPress site.
