Chapter 2. First steps toward a faster website

This chapter runs through the basic tools and skills that you need to know in order to start analyzing your site. You’re going to start by learning the basics of HTTP and understanding HTTP requests and responses. You’ll also run through performance charts and the tools you can use to create them. By the time you’re finished with this chapter, you’ll be able to dive straight into coding.

2.1. The basics of HTTP

HTTP, the foundation of all communication on the web, allows browsers and servers to communicate with each other using a request-and-response communication system. HTTP, in the most simple terms, is like a conversation: one person is the browser requesting information, and the other is the server, responding with a result. You (the browser) then interpret the response and act accordingly.

In general, the client always initiates the conversation and the server replies. These HTTP requests and responses contain data that is readable to the human eye, which makes it easy to follow and understand. Most modern browsers come with a set of free tools that enable you to monitor these messages easily.

2.2. Empty cache vs. primed cache

2.3. Tips and tools for interpreting performance charts

2.4. Performance rules to live by

2.5. Summary