Should the header include individual CSS and JS files, or should all code be contained within a single CSS and JS file?

As I work on optimizing my website, I find myself juggling multiple plugins that include jQuery plugins with CSS along with my own JavaScript code.

Currently, the CSS is spread across separate files for each plugin I have downloaded. When needed on a page, I add the necessary code to include them. The same goes for JS files. However, when rendering a complex page with many elements, this results in calling 9 CSS files and 7 or 8 JS files, leading to numerous HTTP requests.

One solution could be consolidating all CSS into one large file to reduce the number of included files. Yet, this might cause the browser to interpret unnecessary styles if certain pages don't require them.

Another approach I'm considering is generating CSS and JS files using PHP. This way, only one JS and one CSS file would be loaded, containing only what is essential for each specific page. Is this strategy too unconventional?

In your opinion, which method should I adopt to effectively reduce the page load time?

javascriptjquerycssperformanceoptimization

Answer №1

One efficient way to optimize the loading speed of a website is by consolidating all CSS and JS files into separate files, then using online services to minify and compress them. This method helps reduce the number of http requests required for loading, as well as decreases the overall volume of data that needs to be downloaded.

If you are generating CSS using php, it is recommended to download the CSS and JS files with each page load. While this may take some time initially, consolidating them into one file allows for faster subsequent downloads since the browser can cache the file.

In cases where a website has multiple sections and combining all CSS into one large file may cause issues, consider splitting the CSS into two or three separate files. Each section can then load the relevant CSS file, ensuring optimal performance.

Ultimately, reducing the number of http requests is crucial in improving website speed and efficiency.

Answer №2

Your most recent approach appears to be the most effective.

Consider creating a single js file and css file using PHP, and remember to compress/minify them for improved performance :)

For further optimization tips, check out this insightful article:

Answer №3

The approach to optimizing resource loading on your website will depend on the browsing behavior of your users. If most users tend to stay on one page, it would be beneficial to only send them the necessary resources for that specific page in order to minimize requests. Conversely, if users typically navigate through multiple pages, it may be more efficient to preload additional resources so they are readily available for subsequent page views. However, it is essential to maintain consistency in generating CSS and JS with the same URI to prevent redundant downloads under different names, and implement proper HTTP caching.

One strategy I employ is dividing JS/CSS into two categories: "common.css" and "common.js" containing elements shared across all pages (such as header/footer styles and core scripts like jquery) and unique JS/CSS files for individual subpages with specific content requirements.

Answer №4

Personally, I find that striking a balance is key - consolidating and compressing CSS files into one file works best for me. When it comes to JS code, consider creating multiple files: one for compressed external libraries, one for common code, and possibly additional files for different sections, although this may not be necessary. You could also split your JS code based on what's needed before and after user login.

Don't forget to minify and explore asynchronous loading options (like using LAB.js).

As for the PHP script mentioned... instead of generating everything repeatedly, consider using a script to join and minify your static files during compiling, deploying, or even manually running it to save time and resources.

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