Glossary

Time to first byte

What is Time to first byte?

'Time to First Byte' (TTFB) refers to the time it takes for a user's browser to receive the first byte of data from your website's server after a request is made. Think of it like the response time from when you call someone’s name until they say "Yes?". It's the initial signal that your website is responding to a visitor's request.

Why It's Important for Users: Imagine walking into a store and waiting to be greeted. The quicker you're acknowledged, the better your experience. TTFB is similar for your website visitors. A quick TTFB means your site starts loading faster, making visitors happy because they don't have to wait. Happy visitors often mean returning customers.

Impact on SEO: Search engines, like Google, love fast websites. They view a quick TTFB as a sign of a healthy, responsive site. This speed can help your site rank higher in search results, making it more likely for people to find you. In the vast world of the internet, being easily discoverable is crucial.

Friendly Reminder: A fast TTFB is like a friendly hello to your visitors and a thumbs up to search engines. Keep an eye on it to ensure your website always makes a great first impression!