AI-generated illustration
Optimize website performance – prioritize requests correctlyUpdated for 2026: from request numbers to user experience and rendering
The number of requests explains only part of the loading time. More important are often time, size, dependencies and the question of whether a resource blocks the visible content.
In the network waterfall, start with the resources that the first visible content is waiting for. Fewer requests are not automatically faster.
Reading a Waterfall
Open the network area of the browser developer tools and reload the page under documented conditions. Don’t just sort by file size: also consider when a request starts and what triggers it.
An image that is only discovered after several scripts can delay the visible build-up longer than several small files launched early. A large unused stylesheet, on the other hand, generates transmission and possibly additional processing work.
Illustrative Before/After Case
| Before | Targeted change | Check afterwards |
|---|---|---|
| Hero image is only inserted by a script | Make an image in the appropriate HTML early findable | Start of request and visible presentation |
| Slider assets on all sides | Load only on pages with actually needed slider | Function of the affected page types |
| Large logo as original file | Select suitable output size and format | Sharpness, Download and Cache Behavior |
Resources provided with a purpose
- For conspicuous requests, determine triggers and responsible components.
- Remove or appropriately limit unneeded integrations.
- Prioritize necessary resources according to their role instead of delaying everything in general.
- Check appropriate compression and cache rules based on actual responses.
- After each change, load, navigation and test central forms.
Grouping not as a blanket recipe
A single large file can transfer unnecessary content to any page and can devalue the entire cache if you make small changes. Many small files can generate other costs. Protocol, cache and actual use determine which division makes sense.
First, measure the same page type under comparable conditions. Document whether the browser cache was warm or empty and whether external services were involved. A screenshot of a one-time best measurement is not reliable proof.
Frequent questions
Should I summarize all the files?
Not flat-rate. Check usage, caching and critical loading path. A large shared file can transfer more unused data.
Which requests are optimized first?
Those that are unnecessary or that specifically delay the important visible content or central interactions.