Why Cloudflare For WordPress?
One of cloudflare’s competitors is a well-known Content Delivery Networks (CDN) that boosts security, website speed and overall performance. It serves as a shield for your website and site users by reducing load timings and preventing threats.
Personally, I feel that adding Cloudflare to my WordPress website reduced the load time and the bot attacks were lowered significantly. Just that alone helped me achieve faster load times on a noticeable level.
Primary Benefits of Cloudflare on WordPress
Cloudflare Free vs. Pro Plan: Which One to Choose?
| Feature | Free Plan | Pro Plan ($20/mo) |
|---|---|---|
| Global CDN | Yes | Yes |
| DDoS Protection | Basic | Advanced |
| Image Optimization | No | Yes |
| WAF | No | YesWhy Use Cloudflare for WordPress? |
1.Boosted Page Load Speed
With Cloudflare, all static content is saved using Cloudflare CDN located around the world. This makes loading the site faster for users that access it from farther away.
By enabling Cloudflare on my wordpress site, I’ve experienced a page load speed decrease from 4.5 seconds to less than 2 seconds. This significantly increases user experience and increases the SEO ranking of my site.
2.Better Protection of the Site
Cloudflare has numerous essential features like SSL encryption, DDoS protection and Web Application Firewall (WAF) which work around the clock to protect your site from threats.
I had trouble with malicious bots trying to attack my login page. Most of the brute-force attacks seemed to vanish once I enabled the WAF and bot protection that Cloudflare provides.
Step 1: Register an Account with Cloudflare
Go to the Cloudflare’s website and sign up. After registering, add your configuration and WordPress website and allow Cloudflare to view your DNS records.
Step 2: Change Your Nameservers
As instructed by Cloudflare, select two nameserver options. Go to your domain registrar and swap your current nameservers for Cloudflare ones.
Step 3: Set Up Basic Cloudflare Settings
For free SSL activation, toggle it on. If your site doesn’t have SSL, toggle on flexible SSL. If your site does have SSL, leave it off. Activate Brotli compression as this reduces more file sizes. Enable Auto Minify, as this compresses CSS and HTML to increase performance.
Step 4: Add the Plugin from WordPress
From your WordPress dashboard, visit Plugins > Add New. Search for Cloudflare and download the official plugin. Then turn it on and link it to your Cloudflare account.
Cloudflare Settings for WordPress Optimization
1.Settings for Caching
For the best results, adjust the Caching Level to Standard. Turn on Always Online so you can provide cached pages when your site is down.
2.Enhancing Speed
Improve Javascript loading speed with Rocket Loader. Adjust header and turn on Image Polish to boost performance.
3.DDoS Protection
To block use of too much traffic, switch on DDoS protection. Use Firewall Rules to guard against brute-force login attempts on the login pages.
Common issues and remedies related to Cloudflare
- Dasboard Loading Slowly
Solution: Enable page rule bypass caching for wp-admin on Cloudflare.
- Mixed Content Error
Solution: Adjust HTTPS Rewrites in Cloudflare settings under Automatic mode.
- Changes Not Showing on the Site
Solution: Clear cache in Cloudflare dashboard.
Final Words
Cloudflare has proven to be one of the most important additions to WordPress websites because it not only increases the speed but also improves the security of the site. As an owner of the site, I was able to see the difference in speed, security, and even SEO after incorporating Cloudflare.
Cloudflare has a free plan, and if you are looking to improve your WordPress site without spending too much, it is definitely worth exploring. Sign up today and see for yourself!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cloudflare good for WordPress?
Yes! It improves security, performance, and caching to make WordPress efficient.
Will using Cloudflare affect my SEO?
Absolutely! Lower load times and better security equal better search ranking.
Can I use Cloudflare with all hosting providers?
Yes, all WordPress hosting providers like Bluehost, SiteGround, or Hostinger are compatible.
Can Cloudflare slow down the websites?
No, but incorrect settings can cause problems. When configured correctly, it helps boost speed and security.
