When it comes to optimising website performance, GZIP and Brotli are widely used compression techniques. However, it's crucial to understand their role and limitations, especially regarding image optimisation.
What Are GZIP and Brotli?
GZIP and Brotli are compression algorithms designed to reduce the size of text-based files such as HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and JSON. By compressing these resources, websites can improve loading speeds and reduce bandwidth usage.
Why GZIP and Brotli Do Not Optimize Images
Unlike text files, images (JPEG, PNG, WebP, etc.) are already compressed using specialised algorithms like Cloudimage/Dynamic Media Optimisation. Applying GZIP or Brotli to images does not improve optimisation and can, in some cases, even increase file sizes due to inefficient compression.
The Risk of Improper CDN-Level Activation
If GZIP or Brotli is incorrectly enabled at the CDN level for media files, it can interfere with proper image optimisation and delivery. Instead of reducing file sizes, this misconfiguration might:
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Increase media weight, negating performance benefits.
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Cause unnecessary processing overhead, impacting server efficiency.
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Alter the delivery of optimised images, leading to unexpected quality or format issues.
Best Practices
To ensure optimal performance:
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Use GZIP/Brotli for text-based assets only.
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Allow CDN-based image optimisation tools to handle image compression.
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Configure the CDN settings correctly to prevent unwanted re-compression of images.
By understanding the distinct roles of these technologies, you can enhance website speed while ensuring images remain optimised for fast, high-quality delivery.
If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to the Scaleflex Support team
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