Lazy loading ensures that images and videos are only loaded once a visitor actually scrolls them into view. On a LiteSpeed server, you can easily set this up via the free LiteSpeed Cache plugin for WordPress. This reduces the loading time of the initial page view, saves bandwidth, and improves your Core Web Vitals score. Below you’ll find a step-by-step guide on how to activate and optimally configure it.
What is lazy loading and why use it
By default, a browser loads all images on a page at once, including images at the bottom of the page that only become visible after scrolling. Lazy loading delays the loading of those images until the moment they approach the visible part of the screen. This makes the initial page load faster, reduces the browser’s data usage, and improves the user experience, especially on mobile connections.
This is also relevant for search engine ranking: speed and Core Web Vitals play a role in how a website is evaluated. LiteSpeed Cache combines lazy loading with other optimizations, such as automatically serving images in modern formats and minifying CSS/JS.
Enabling lazy loading via LiteSpeed Cache
On servers running LiteSpeed Web Server, such as with webhosting from Tandata, you typically use the LiteSpeed Cache plugin for WordPress. It is available for free in the WordPress plugin directory and works directly together with the server-side cache.
Install the LiteSpeed Cache plugin
Go to Plugins > Add New in WordPress, search for “LiteSpeed Cache”, then install and activate the plugin.
Open the Page Optimization tab
Go to LiteSpeed Cache in the menu and click the “Page Optimization” tab. Here you’ll find the Media Settings section.
Turn on lazy loading
Switch “Lazy Load Images” and, if desired, “Lazy Load Iframes” to On. Save the settings.
Set a placeholder
Choose an option under “Responsive Placeholder” or “Generate LQIP In Background” so images load neatly without layout shift.
Fine-tuning settings and adding exceptions
Not every image benefits from lazy loading. The logo and the first image above the fold are best loaded immediately, since delaying them actually slows down the experience. In LiteSpeed Cache you can exclude specific images, classes, or URLs under “Lazy Load Image Excludes”.
For example, add the path to your logo or hero image here. It’s also wise to use the “Generate LQIP In Background” option: this generates a light, blurry preview (Low Quality Image Placeholder) so the page doesn’t jump around while loading.
If you manage multiple websites and domains with one provider, you’ll find these settings per domain in Plesk under your hosting account. If you’re considering switching to a provider with LiteSpeed servers and NVMe storage, check out switching to Tandata.
Testing lazy loading and troubleshooting
After enabling it, always test whether images load correctly. Open your site in an incognito window, scroll down slowly, and check whether images appear smoothly without delay or empty areas.
If you run into problems, such as images not loading at all or a broken layout, first check for conflicts with another cache or optimization plugin. Don’t use two plugins simultaneously that both apply lazy loading. Clear the LiteSpeed cache after every change via the lightning bolt icon in the WordPress toolbar.
If it still doesn’t work as desired after these steps, consult the Tandata knowledge base or contact support. At Tandata, 24/7 support is available via WhatsApp, tickets, and email, also for this kind of configuration issue.
Frequently asked questions
Does lazy loading also work without a plugin, purely via LiteSpeed?
LiteSpeed Web Server itself doesn’t offer a separate lazy loading feature apart from the plugin; for WordPress sites you use the LiteSpeed Cache plugin, which handles the optimization at the application level.
Does lazy loading slow down SEO performance?
No, if set up correctly, lazy loading actually improves loading time and Core Web Vitals. Just make sure images above the fold are excluded, otherwise the Largest Contentful Paint may be delayed.
Can I disable lazy loading for a single page?
Yes, via the exclusion settings in Page Optimization you can add specific classes, IDs, or URL patterns that you want to exclude from lazy loading.
Does lazy loading also work for email attachments or other services?
No, lazy loading only applies to web pages. For business email with a high security score, check out business email.
Do I need a specific domain to set this up?
No, the setting works on any domain running WordPress on a LiteSpeed server. If you want to register a new domain, check out the options at domain names.
Conclusion
Setting up lazy loading via LiteSpeed Cache is a simple, free way to noticeably speed up your WordPress site. Install the plugin, enable lazy loading via Page Optimization, exclude important images above the fold, and test the result. This way you combine a fast server with an optimized homepage.