Cache: The Invisible Magic of Fast Websites

Why does a website load much faster the second time you visit? The answer is Cache.

What is Cache?

It’s like your browser’s short-term memory. When you visit my site, your browser downloads the logo, fonts, and background images.

If you come back tomorrow, it would be inefficient to download the exact same logo again. Cache allows the browser to save those files on your hard drive. So next time, it only needs to fetch “what’s new”.

Types of Cache

1. Browser Cache: On the user’s device. Vital for returning users.
2. Server Cache: The server saves “pre-built” pages so it doesn’t have to calculate them every time someone visits.

The “I don’t see changes” problem

Sometimes, you update your site and don’t see the changes. That’s a poorly configured or overly aggressive cache. A good cache strategy knows when to keep things for a year (like your logo) and when to check for changes every hour (like your prices).

Conclusion

Good cache configuration reduces your server load (saving costs) and radically improves the experience for your loyal users.