Time to First Byte, or TTFB, measures how long it takes for the browser to receive the first byte of data from the server.
Why it matters
If the server is slow to respond, everything else starts later.
Common causes of poor TTFB
- Weak hosting
- No page caching
- Slow database queries
- Too many plugins
- Heavy theme logic
- Excessive redirects
How to improve TTFB
Use better hosting
A faster server environment can make a major difference.
Enable caching
Page caching can sharply reduce the amount of server work required.
Reduce plugin bloat
Inactive or poorly optimized plugins can slow page generation.
Review redirects
Extra redirect chains add delay before the real page even begins loading.
Conclusion
TTFB is not the only metric that matters, but improving it often helps the rest of the page begin loading sooner.