Suggestions to reduce our website loading time

Query: How can one effectively reduce the file size of a webpage to improve loading speed? What specific optimization practices and coding techniques (in JavaScript and PHP) can be implemented to decrease page weight?

Motivation: After reading an article comparing jquery.js with jquery.min.js usage, I realized that many individuals may not fully understand the implications. As someone focused on developing ad units for Android and iOS devices, trimming down each kilobyte is crucial. While I've made the switch to using jquery.min over plain JavaScript, it does add to the overall file sizes. Given Google's emphasis on this factor in their page ranking criteria, optimizing webpage weight has become even more critical for search rankings. Despite my efforts to find answers through Google searches, solid solutions seem elusive.

I am curious about strategies beyond simply utilizing minified versions of JavaScript libraries to enhance webpage performance across various devices, including mobile phones, tablets, and desktop browsers. Every JavaScript developer must eventually grapple with this concern.

Answer №1

When looking to improve website performance, consider delving into WPO (Web Performance Optimization) and/or FEO (Front-End Optimization).

Although it may be dated, Steve Souders' recommendations are still relevant today:

Rule 1 - Make Fewer HTTP Requests
Rule 2 - Use a Content Delivery Network
Rule 3 - Add an Expires Header
Rule 4 - Gzip Components
Rule 5 - Put Stylesheets at the Top
Rule 6 - Put Scripts at the Bottom
Rule 7 - Avoid CSS Expressions
Rule 8 - Make JavaScript and CSS External
Rule 9 - Reduce DNS Lookups
Rule 10 - Minify JavaScript
Rule 11 - Avoid Redirects
Rule 12 - Remove Duplicate Scripts
Rule 13 - Configure ETags
Rule 14 - Make AJAX Cacheable

You can also explore Yahoo's guidelines here: http://developer.yahoo.com/performance/rules.html

And don't forget to check out Google's best practices: https://developers.google.com/speed/docs/best-practices/rules_intro

Before implementing any changes, make sure to test your site using

Answer №2

Maximize the benefits of parallel downloading and caching by utilizing a CDN like Google:

<script src="//ajax.googleapis.com/ajax/libs/jquery/1.10.1/jquery.min.js"></script>

If you're concerned about file size, consider creating your own customized version of jQuery with only the necessary components: {you can still host this file on an external server for parallel downloading}

jQuery Builder (e.g) (28.35 Kb minified using only ajax and css modules)

OFF TOPIC

For improved animation performance when using jQuery, explore the GSAP jQuery plugin which can boost performance up to 20X: jQuery GSAP

Visit the speed test page to compare different libraries:

Answer №3

Perhaps you're interested in optimizing the page load speed for a new visitor or when resources are not cached, requiring the client to download all files.

Tips for Faster jQuery Load Time

Utilize External CDN for Hosting jQuery

Many users already have jQuery cached as it is commonly used from third-party CDN libraries. You can take advantage of this by using the same resource. Popular options include Google Hosted Libraries and jQuery's CDN.

To use third-party CDN-hosted jQuery, simply add a script tag like this:

<script src="//ajax.googleapis.com/ajax/libs/jquery/1.10.1/jquery.min.js"></script>

Note: Wondering about the missing protocol/scheme in the URL? Read about Protocol-relative URLs by Paul Irish here.

The main drawback of using a third-party CDN is that any interruptions in service will affect your site/ad. However, disruptions are more likely with your hosting service than with reputable CDNs.

Customized jQuery Build

If you prefer not to use external CDN hosting, consider customizing your jQuery build to include only the necessary parts for your project. A helpful tool for this purpose is jQuery Builder.

Alternative Libraries to jQuery

Some find jQuery too heavy and unsuitable for mobile devices. Lighter alternatives like Zepto.js, Snack.js, and $dom aim to provide smaller, more efficient solutions. Keep in mind that these may lack certain features and browser support, so choose wisely.

Optimizing Your Code

Ensure all source code is minified and compressed (i.e. gzipped) when delivered in a production environment. Streamline requests by combining multiple files into one, reducing request numbers and enhancing caching benefits for both JavaScript and CSS files.

Answer №4

To optimize your website's bandwidth usage, it is crucial to implement caching headers.

Consider using ETAG and If-Modified headers.

By utilizing the Last-Modified header with the last_edit column from the database, you can efficiently cache articles for faster loading times on subsequent visits.

Identify and prioritize pages that can benefit from caching optimization.

While caching may not be effective on pages with comments, dynamically loading them through ajax can still allow for caching.

Keep in mind that implementing caching might become intricate on pages that require more than just article content.

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