Cache optimization for Joomla
All dynamic content management systems place a significant load on the server, and Joomla is no exception in this regard.
However, most websites host content that changes infrequently, which allows the use of caching techniques to minimize the need to load all content every time a page is visited.
The cache system generates a complete copy of a page the first time it is displayed. On subsequent visits, this stored copy is used to display the page, avoiding much of the code and database queries required to build it again from scratch.
Over time, you may notice slower performance or operational issues on your Joomla site. In this guide, we show some of the most effective solutions to address common problems that may slow down or affect the efficiency of a website. Optimizing your site will not only improve its performance but will also attract more visitors.
Suggestions to optimize Joomla cache
Update Joomla to the latest versions
It is essential to keep your site updated to ensure that it is using the latest version of the code, which not only protects your site but also optimizes its performance. It is strongly recommended to keep your site up to date with the latest available version. You can easily check whether your site is updated by accessing the Joomla administration panel. As soon as you log in with your user, it will show you if a version is available under “Notifications”:
Before updating, we recommend checking the extensions installed in your Joomla and ensuring that they are compatible with the new version to be updated. You can access your extension list and review the technical details of each one:
Enable Joomla default cache
The first step, before activating the plugin that manages Joomla Cache, is to enable Joomla’s own system cache, allowing the plugin to apply the necessary configurations for its operation.
You must go to System -> Global Configuration in your Joomla panel to access the following window:
You must ensure that the “System Cache” is enabled with conservative caching. By default, this value is disabled. Once modified, click “Save & Close” in the upper left corner. With this change, Joomla is now ready to manage its cache, but it is still necessary to activate a plugin for this management.
Page cache is managed by the System Cache Plugin provided by default with Joomla. To activate it, log in to the Joomla administration area and go to Home Dashboard -> Plugins:
There, you can directly filter by the word “cache” and the mentioned cache plugin will be displayed:
When accessing it, you must verify that the plugin status is “Enabled”. If not, open the dropdown to change it and click “Save & Close” to activate it:
Image optimization
Images are often responsible for slow website loading times. Large images require more time to download when viewing your page. By optimizing the size of your images, you can experience a noticeable improvement in your site's performance.
It is recommended to reduce image size before uploading them to Joomla. You can use image editing programs such as Photoshop, GIMP, among others, to export them in smaller dimensions without compromising quality.
If you already have many images uploaded to your website and they are large, we recommend gradually replacing them to reduce the total load.
Use cdmon cache tool (Varnish)
At cdmon we offer a server-level cache tool. This cache works similarly to Joomla’s built-in cache but directly on the server, as it stores cached files in a fast-access location, reducing the need to fully load them every time Joomla needs to access them.
This tool can be activated directly from the cdmon control panel, and we offer a type of cache specifically optimized for Joomla, tailored to the specific needs of this application.
If you have any questions, you can contact our technical support.
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