Performance Optimization Tips

Why Performance Matters

A slow shop means lost customers. Every 1 second delay can reduce conversions by 7%. This guide helps you optimize your ShopKatalog store for lightning-fast performance.

Image Optimization

Images are usually the largest files on your shop. Properly optimized images can dramatically improve speed.

File Size Guidelines

How to Compress Images

Best Image Formats

• JPG: Best for photos and detailed images (smaller file sizes)
• PNG: Best for images with transparency or logos (larger files)
• WebP: Modern format (smaller than JPG/PNG) - best when available
• Avoid: GIF, BMP, TIFF for web (use PNG or JPG instead)

Dimension Guidelines

• Product images: 1000x1000px (square) or 1200x900px (landscape)
• Don't upload larger than needed - resize before uploading
• Mobile users get the same size images - optimize for mobile
• Smaller dimensions = faster loading = better performance

Shop Structure & Organization

Product Categories

• Organize products into logical categories
• Use subcategories for large product collections
• Fewer products per page load faster
• Consider lazy loading for large catalogs (ShopKatalog handles this)
• Remove duplicate or inactive products

Database Performance

• Keep product descriptions concise (don't paste huge walls of text)
• Use clear formatting (paragraphs, bullet points) for readability
• Archive old/completed orders periodically
• Delete test products when done testing
• Avoid storing large files in product descriptions

Browser & Client-Side Performance

Recommended Browser Settings

Cache Management

Cached data loads faster, but old cache can cause issues:

• Clear Cache: If shop looks outdated or isn't updating
• Keyboard Shortcut: Ctrl+Shift+Delete (most browsers)
• Hard Refresh: Ctrl+Shift+R clears cache for current page
• Clear Cookies: If login issues occur
• Frequency: Clear cache monthly or when issues arise

Extension Management

Browser extensions can slow down your shop:

• Disable unnecessary extensions
• Common culprits: Ad blockers, VPN, password managers
• Use incognito mode to test without extensions
• Keep extensions updated
• Uninstall extensions you no longer use

Internet Connection Optimization

Connection Type

Speed Test & Troubleshooting

• Test your speed at speedtest.net
• If slow, restart your router (unplug for 30 seconds)
• Move closer to WiFi router
• Use WiFi instead of mobile data when possible
• Limit devices using your WiFi while using ShopKatalog
• Contact your ISP if speeds are consistently below advertised

VPN & Network Tools

• VPNs: Can slow down your connection - disable if not needed
• Proxies: Avoid for best performance
• WiFi Analyzers: Find less congested WiFi channels
• Network Monitors: Check what's using your bandwidth

Mobile Performance

Mobile-Specific Optimization

• Mobile users see the same images as desktop - make them small
• Mobile loads slower - extra-optimize for mobile
• Reduce number of products per page on mobile
• Simplify mobile navigation
• Use mobile-friendly fonts and button sizes

Mobile Device Tips

• Use 4G/5G instead of 3G when possible
• Close background apps consuming data
• Clear mobile browser cache regularly
• Update your mobile browser and OS
• Disable auto-play for videos if on limited data
• Use mobile data compression features if available

Monitoring & Testing Performance

Performance Testing Tools

Performance Checklist

Performance Goals by Stage

Next Steps