Complete guide to optimizing WordPress images using LiteSpeed Cache’s built-in optimization features.

Understanding and Using LiteSpeed Image Optimization

Important Note About Processing Time

Please be patient during optimization. The system is specifically designed to prevent overload of both the optimization servers and hosting infrastructure.

• For small sites (100-500 images): Check back in a few hours
• For medium sites (500-2000 images): Allow 24-48 hours
• For large sites (2000+ images): This may take several days

You don’t need to keep your browser open or monitor the process. The system will continue working in the background while you’re away. This measured approach ensures stable performance for everyone.

Initial Setup Requirements

• Navigate to LiteSpeed Cache > Image Optimization > Settings
• Enable Auto Request Cron to ON
• Verify Auto Pull Cron is ON
• These settings ensure automatic processing
• Let the system work at its own pace
• No manual intervention needed

How The Process Works

Batch Processing

• First batch is intentionally small (just a few images)
• Verifies system compatibility
• Ensures proper communication
• System gradually increases batch sizes
• Maximum batch size: 200 images
• This controlled scaling prevents server overload
• You can continue using your site normally
• Optimization happens in the background
• No performance impact on your site

Image Groups Explained

When you upload an image, WordPress creates multiple sizes:

• thumbnail (150×150)
• medium (300×300)
• medium_large (768×768)
• large (1024×1024)
• full size (original dimensions)

These related images form an “image group” and are optimized together, which is why total image count may seem higher than expected.

Optimization Features

Automatic Compression

• Reduces file size while maintaining quality
• Creates backup files (.bk extension) automatically
• Handles both JPEG and PNG formats
• Processes new uploads automatically once configured

WebP Conversion

• Creates WebP versions for supported images
• Typically provides 30% better compression
• Automatically serves WebP to compatible browsers
• Falls back gracefully for unsupported browsers

Storage Versions

Each image may have three versions:

• Original image (stored as .bk file)
• Optimized version
• WebP version (when applicable)

Monitoring Progress

Checking Optimization Status

• Visit LiteSpeed Cache > Image Optimization
• Status messages show:
  • Number of images requested
  • Images successfully pulled
  • Any errors encountered
• Remember: Progress is intentionally gradual

Media Library Integration

• Go to Media > Library
• Look for “LiteSpeed Optimization” column
• Shows optimization status and space saved
• Displays optm or non-optm toggle links

Managing Optimized Images

Switching Between Versions

Two convenient methods:

Individual Images

• Open Media Library
• Locate specific image
• Use optm/non-optm toggle
• Changes are immediate for individual images

Bulk Management

• Go to LiteSpeed Cache > Image Optimization
• Use “Use Original Files” or “Use Optimized Files”
• Switch between versions anytime
• No limit on switching frequency

Storage Management

Available Tools

• Calculate Backup Disk Space
  • Shows storage used by backups
  • Helpful for space planning
• Remove Original Image Backups
  • Permanently removes .bk files
  • WARNING: Irreversible action
  • Only use when satisfied with optimization
• Clean Up Unfinished Data
  • Removes incomplete optimization records
  • Useful if process seems stuck
  • Safe to use; affects only incomplete tasks

Best Practices

Getting Started

• Enable Auto Request and Auto Pull Cron
• Let the system run without intervention
• Check progress periodically (not constantly)
• Plan optimization during lower-traffic periods

Ongoing Management

• Keep backups until fully satisfied
• Monitor storage space occasionally
• Let new uploads optimize automatically
• Trust the automated process

Troubleshooting

Common Scenarios

• Seems Stuck
  • This is normal; process is intentionally gradual
  • Wait 24-48 hours before concerning
  • Check status messages for actual progress
• Error Messages
  • Use “Clean Up Unfinished Data”
  • System will retry failed images
  • Patience is key; system self-corrects

When to Contact Support

Only reach out if:

• No progress after several days
• Consistent error messages
• Issues with optimized image quality

Support

If needed, contact our support team:

• Provide your site URL
• Describe when optimization started
• Share any error messages
• Include approximate image count

Remember: The optimization process is designed to be hands-off. Set it up correctly, then let it work while you focus on other aspects of your site.