3 Tips for Faster Load Times and Website Speeds

Reduce the File Size of Images and Graphics

One of the easiest and most effective ways to increase the speeds on your website is to reduce the sizes of the files within it. This is most often done to large graphic and picture files that require that extra few seconds to load and render fully. As a rule of thumb, remember that graphics that are completely computer generated work better as a .png file and images from a camera with real life compositions work better in the .jpg file format. You can get online software to reduce file size for you, but it is best to consult your web designer to have this completed specifically for the needs of your website. With images and graphics optimised in this way, you should notice a speed increase to your website as the pictures within it function in the best way possible for them.

Ensure that your Website is on the Correct Server

Three of the most common types of website servers are shared, dedicated and cloud servers. Do you know which one your website is on? Do you know what one your website needs? A shared server means that your website is housed on the same server as other websites. This means that your server has to load multiple websites and as such can result in a slower load time. A dedicated server means that your website has a server all to itself and is not affected by any other websites when it comes to load times. A cloud based server houses your website digitally in the cloud instead of relying on physical hardware such as an external hard drive. Consult with your website designer about what server option suits your website needs the best and once in place, your website speeds should be able to match the needs of your website.

Action Compression and Cleanup

Like with reducing files sizes as mentioned above, compression is the act of removing and reducing all of the data and components that are non-essential and are not detrimental to its function. Doing this means that only the required elements of your website require loading times and speed dedicated to them without being dragged back by unnecessary elements. After your website has been compressed, you should then action a manual clean-up to free up even more space. You need to ensure that any plugins on your website are updated to the latest versions so that run smoothly and speedily. Websites pages that are no longer required or features that are no longer in use should also be removed as this gives your website less to load and less to dedicate speed to.