Speed and performance
Do I need a CDN for a small blog?
No, but you may want one. If your readers are spread across several continents, or you ever get a surge of traffic from a popular post, a free CDN tier can help a lot. Start with page caching and image optimisation, because they matter more.
Why does my site load slowly only the first time?
The first visit has to fetch everything and may hit an uncached page, which the server has to build. Later visits benefit from the browser cache and the server's page cache. If the first visit is dramatically slower, enable page caching on the server and make sure static files carry long cache times.
How many redirects are too many?
One is ideal. Two is acceptable. A chain of three or more slows every visit and can confuse search engines. Redirect directly to the final address, for example from http://www to https:// bare in one step when possible.
What is a good page load time?
Under two seconds on a typical connection feels fast to most people, and under one is excellent. Beyond three, many visitors lose patience, especially on mobile. Measure from where your visitors actually are.
Should I lazy-load all my images?
Lazy-load images below the first screen so they download only when needed. Do not lazy-load the main image visible at the top, because delaying it makes the page appear slower.
Do I need HTTP/3?
It helps most on unreliable or high-latency connections, such as mobile. If your host or CDN offers it, turn it on. Browsers fall back to older versions automatically, so there is little risk.
Why is my site fast in one country and slow in another?
Distance and routing. Your server is in one place, and visitors far away pay in latency. A CDN fixes this for static files, and a server closer to your audience helps for dynamic ones.