Incorrect server configuration

Problem Summary

Incorrect server configuration can make an otherwise optimized WordPress site slow by limiting caching, compression, PHP performance, database access, or static file delivery.

Performance Impact

Slow TTFB: Backend processing takes longer than necessary
Larger transfers: Missing compression increases payload size
Poor cache hit rate: Headers or rules prevent effective caching
Intermittent errors: Resource limits cause timeouts under traffic

How to Detect

Response headers: Check cache-control, compression, and server timing
PHP info: Review memory, OPcache, and execution limits
Server logs: Look for 499, 500, 502, 503, and timeout patterns
Load testing: Check behavior under concurrent traffic

Solutions

1. Enable OPcache

PHP OPcache reduces repeated script compilation cost.

2. Configure Compression

Enable Brotli or GZIP for text-based assets.

3. Set Correct Cache Headers

Static assets should be cacheable with versioned filenames.

4. Tune PHP-FPM and Database Limits

Match worker counts and memory limits to available server resources.