RSS Feed, Cache, Bandwith. Is there any data on this?

Client Joined: Jan 21, 2006 Posts: 87 Location: Arizona

Hey Nuke World Out There! Greetings from Mars!

I've installed an RSS feed block on my site. However I have choice. One that features a cache system, and one without. My question is:

Does anyone know the effects of RSS feed on bandwith usage. Is it a major factor (like leaving the lights on?...my bandwith meter is constantly spinning up). If it is, does the cache make any difference?

How about page load speed?

Simply does anyone know the pros/cons of Using external RSS feeds in terms of Bandwith usage, and Site Speed/Page Load Times.

Thanks

Posted: Tue Apr 25, 2006 7:58 pm

I will assume that what you are interested in is just your presentment of someone elses RSS feed on your site rather than the impact of your backend.php (your own site's RSS feed that others can pull).

Bandwidth: I see no difference between cached and no-chached. Either way, the same data is being sent down to the client browser.

Site Speed/Load Times: most definitely a very significant affect especially when there is a problem with the site that is to provide you the XML. Although I have not done so as yet, I would highly recommend caching RSS feeds that you have added to your site that are pulling from external sources. The frequency with which you reload the cache is a personal choice based on your needs.

Now, if you were really concerned with bandwidth with your own site's RSS feed being used, well, yes, there is an impact, although the XML is usually quite small. However, you really do not have control over it from a bandwidth standpoint because it still has to provide the XML back. However, if others are caching your RSS feed, that only helps out your site.

Posted: Tue Apr 25, 2006 8:13 pm

Thanks! That information is exactly what I was looking for.....Well I will opt for the cache now.