How To Improve Your Cache Hit Ratio

You’ve jumped into caching on your WordPress site with expectations of lightning-fast page loads and ecstatic visitors 24/7. However, imagine the surprise when it’s clear that’s not always the case.

Now, consider the cache reality. The cache hit ratio never hits the perfect 100%—it’s a crucial fact during your cache strategy roll-out. So, buckle up and push the pedal to boost that cache hit ratio. Because honestly, a cache miss feels like a caffeine-deprived morning—tolerable, but far from ideal.

Houston, we’ve got problems alright!

Here are 8 scenarios where your cache might be slacking:

1. Cache Miss: Simply put, the cache hasn’t saved the requested page yet. This is common for new or rarely visited pages.

2. Cache Bypass: Ever notice those URL parameters like UTM codes for tracking? They can trick the cache into treating the request as unique.

3. Cache Expiry: Set the cache’s lifespan too short, and the content might expire too soon, prompting a cache refresh.

4. User Actions: User interactions, like commenting or filling out forms, can lead to a cache clear-out due to dynamic changes.

5. Logged-in Users: Typically, your logged-in user base encounters fresh, uncached content—meaning more load times.

6. Cookie Usage: Certain cookies can signal the caching system to skip its job. Site-wide cookie settings? They might be bypassing the cache without you knowing.

7. Caching Plugin/Config Issues: Sometimes, misconfigurations or plugin conflicts can put a wrench in the caching works.

8. Server-Side Issues: On occasion, the server might be overwhelmed or facing technical glitches, hampering cached content delivery.

Solutions Please!

But fear not, each hiccup has its remedy. Sure, a 100% hit ratio is a pipe dream, but aim high, right? Here’s how to inch closer:

1. Sidestep the Cache Miss

Pre-cache Like a Pro: Don’t wait for the first visitor to cache a page—do it as soon as you publish. It’s like setting the table before the dinner bell rings.

Extend That TTL: Crank up the TTL settings. Think of it as granting your pages an extended stay in the cache haven.

2. Bypass the Cache Bypass

Master URL Normalization: Teach your cache to ignore the insignificant URL parameters—like a pet ignoring the mail carrier.

Selective Caching for the Win: Filter what gets cached like an exclusive club’s bouncer—selective but efficient.

3. Tackle Cache Expiry

Tune That TTL: It’s not a one-time deal. Adjust the TTL like curating the ultimate playlist, keeping the tunes (pages) playing.

Smart Purging: Consider smart purging as your site’s stylist—keeping it fresh without a complete redo at each content update.

4. Manage User Actions with Finesse

AJAX to the Rescue: Let AJAX handle the live user interactions silently, keeping the cached peace intact.

Embrace Partial Caching: It’s like playing Jenga—carefully refresh dynamic content without disrupting the static structure.

5. Serve Logged-in Users Better

Dynamic Caching: Offer a personalized, fast experience for logged-in users—it’s the VIP treatment.

JavaScript Personalization: Use JavaScript to deliver unique content on the fly without touching the cached materials.

Selective Cookie Rules: Set specific conditions for cookie-triggered cache bypassing—like training a pet for backyard etiquette.

Go Cookie-free for Static Assets: Serve static assets without cookies, akin to a freeway express lane.

7. Clean Up Caching Plugin/Config Issues

Regular Audits: Keep a vigilant check on your caching strategies like a pre-drive safety check.

Resolve Conflicts: Smooth out plugin and config clashes like mediating a peaceful family dinner—challenging but key.

8. Strengthen Server-Side Defenses

Scale Up Wisely: Enhance server resources to accommodate traffic like a buzzing club on a weekend.

Balance the Load: Employ load balancing to distribute server traffic like multiple grocery checkout lanes—efficiency at its best.


Remember, performance optimization isn’t a one-and-done deal. Always be on the lookout to polish that cache hit ratio and keep stepping up the game.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recommended Reading: