Best WordPress speed optimisation techniques

WordPress speed optimisation is the key to a successful site. Ensure fast loading and better positioning in Google.

I specialise in advanced speed optimisation of WordPress-based websites. If you need professional help, please visit my website WordPress specialist. I offer comprehensive consultancy and optimisation services. Contact me by telephone on (+48) 579 066 987.

Why is WordPress speed optimisation important?

The loading speed of a website has a direct impact on user experience and SEO. A fast page encourages users to stay on the site longer, resulting in lower rejection rates and higher conversions. Most users do not wait more than a few seconds for a page to load-if it takes too long, they may quickly leave the site.

Key aspects of speed optimisation in WordPress

There are several basic techniques that can be applied to improve the speed of a WordPress site. Here are the most important of these:

• Choosing fast hosting - An important step in speed optimisation is choosing the right hosting. Dedicated or VPS hosting can significantly improve server response times.
• Image optimisation - Reducing the size of images using tools such as Photoshop or image optimisation plug-ins can significantly speed up page loading.
• Use of CDN (Content Delivery Network) - A CDN is a network of servers located around the world that help deliver website content faster.
• Use of cache plug-ins - Plug-ins such as W3 Total Cache or WP Super Cache can speed up a site significantly.
• Minimisation of HTTP Requests - Reducing the number of HTTP requests by combining CSS and JavaScript files can improve loading speeds.
• Updates and removal of unnecessary plug-ins - Infrequently used plug-ins can overload the site, so it is worth reviewing them regularly and removing those that are not essential.

WordPress database optimisation

Optimising your WordPress database on a regular basis is essential to maintaining high site performance. Plugins such as WP-Optimize can help remove unnecessary data such as older versions of posts, pending comments or spam.

It is also worth reducing the number of entries stored in the database. This can be achieved by configuring the WordPress settings to store fewer versions of entries.

Comprehensive image optimisation

Optimising images is a key part of loading pages quickly. Using the right formats and compression tools can significantly reduce loading times:

• Image compression - Tools such as TinyPNG or ImageOptim allow you to reduce the weight of images without losing quality.
• Lazy Load - A staggered loading technique that only loads images when they are visible to the user, reducing initial page load times.

Version control of images - Holds redundant versions, e.g. predefined thumbnails, preventing the database and the server from becoming too full.

Plug-ins to increase the speed of WordPress

There are many plugins available on the market to help optimise the speed of a WordPress site. Here are a few that I particularly recommend:

• WP Rocket - This is an advanced plug-in that incorporates multiple optimisation options into a single, user-friendly interface.
• Autoptimize - Combines and minimises CSS and JavaScript files, resulting in a significant speed improvement.
• Smush - An excellent plug-in for image compression that additionally supports Lazy Load.
• WP Sweep - Allows cleaning and optimisation of the database.

Importance of analysis and monitoring

Effective WordPress speed optimisation requires constant monitoring and analysis. By regularly checking statistics and the results of tests such as Google PageSpeed Insights or GTmetrix, you can track the impact of any changes you make and react immediately to any performance drops.

Regular analyses help to identify dependencies that may be negatively affecting the loading speed of a page and allow appropriate corrections to be made on an ongoing basis.

Cooperation with WordPress specialist

If you want your website to always perform at the highest level, it is worth enlisting the help of a specialist. Professional advice and optimisation can bring clear benefits that will translate into a better user experience and higher rankings in Google search results.

I encourage you to visit my website dedicated to WordPress specialist and to make contact by telephone on (+48) 579 066 987.

Additional resources

For those wishing to go one step further, I recommend reading the article Advantages of Using a Divi Template on WordPress. You'll find practical tips for using one of the most popular templates in WordPress site optimisation.