Understanding and Using LiteSpeed Image Optimization

Important Note About Processing Time

• 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

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

• thumbnail (150×150)

• medium (300×300)

• medium_large (768×768)

• large (1024×1024)

• full size (original dimensions)

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

• 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

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

• No progress after several days

• Consistent error messages

• Issues with optimized image quality

Support

• Provide your site URL

• Describe when optimization started

• Share any error messages

• Include approximate image count