Website speed: the metrics that matter first

Understand TTFB, transfer size and browser rendering before chasing a perfect score.

A fast website begins with a responsive server, small transfer sizes and a page that can render useful content without waiting for heavy scripts.

Time to first byte measures how long the initial server response takes. It is only one part of perceived speed, but slow backend work can delay everything that follows.

Use local assets, efficient caching, compressed responses and minimal JavaScript. Measure on real devices and connections, not only on a desktop development machine.