Apache and HTTP Compression

[keita_mog]

Hi everyone!

I am planning on implementing HTTP Compression in my site, I have been reading and I see big advantages by "gzipping" content from server so that bandwidth could be reduced when reached to client-side.

From what I read, I could add the following pro's:
- Content is compressed when sent from server to client, leveraging bandwidth traffic, reaching in a "faster" way to the user.

And the con's I understand:
- Compression algorithm requires CPU loads
- Compression takes place with text content, not images, etc

What is your opinion about HTTP Compression? Is it a good idea to implement? Are there any other factors and disadvantages to consider in your opinion?

[elija]

We did try it with some pages that had a lot of data in them and it was quicker when downloading over a slower connection. Over a fast +2.5mb connection it didn't make that much difference.

We did it using the php zlib library and found that turning it up more than 6 or 7 actually slowed things down under load. It pretty much compressed the whole response stream but did also cause problems with downloadable PDF's, it had be specifically turned off.

I wouldn't do it if you are having no real problem, but if you are, try it and see. Just be prepared to experiment with the compression levels

[keita_mog]

We did try it with some pages that had a lot of data in them and it was quicker when downloading over a slower connection. Over a fast +2.5mb connection it didn't make that much difference.

We did it using the php zlib library and found that turning it up more than 6 or 7 actually slowed things down under load. It pretty much compressed the whole response stream but did also cause problems with downloadable PDF's, it had be specifically turned off.

I wouldn't do it if you are having no real problem, but if you are, try it and see. Just be prepared to experiment with the compression levels

Hmmm it's very interesting to know real-time experiences like yours than only concept theory from what I read before applying it, thanks for your comments!!