Webp image generation

Hello @thedailybark,

For WebP Image generation, we use WordPress cron. So in order to make sure the process will be completed WP_CRON should be enabled for the site. It is enabled by default, but if you have disabled it for some reason this should be reverted. You can also check if something is blocking the cron execution.

Enabling WebP will re-generate all existing WebP images, if any and will generate new WebP versions of all existing standard images.

Since you have a lot of images, the process could take some time to be completed successfully.

However, if the issue persists, please feel free to submit a support ticket in your Client Area at Siteground.

Regards,
Vladimir

Hey @thedailybark,

So you know, we also use SG Optimizer to generate our WebP images. No issues. The image generation engine works well with a Real Cron as well.

Keep in mind that network traffic can slow things down a bit, especially when using shared servers like SiteGround’s. Also, the compression level selected will strongly influence the speed at which the WebP images are generated.

Last, as you probably know, SG’s WebP image generator creates various sizes of the same image so they can be properly served. That’s why you’re seeing so many images being generated.

Bottom line, to generate WebP images faster, try one or all of the following:

1. Switch (temporarily) to PHP 8.X
2. Disable (temporarily) other plugins and CDN.
3. Switch (temporarily) to a Real Cron (use a 10-minute interval or */10 * * * *)
4. Grab a cup of coffee or your favorite beverage and wait. Patience is key.

Cheers ??

Thank you for that advice! I have compression level at the default 60, and I use real from at 30 minute intervals so I’ll change it to 10 and try again. My concern was that it starts at 75 of 2,500 images, then goes down to the 60’s, then 50’s all the was to 19 out if 2,500 images. I thought maybe it was broken because of that. I’m already using PHP 8.x so I will take your advice and lower the real cron to 10 minutes and try again. Thank you so much!

Hey @thedailybark,

If after trying the above you’re still having issues, consider using a compression level of 25% (low) instead of 60% (medium). If 25% ends up working for you, go back to 60% but use a quality level of 75 or lower (instead of the default of 80) via the code snippet provided below.

Also, since you were already using PHP 8.X, consider switching (temporarily) to PHP 7.X as well (for improved server resource management of your files).

Best wishes ??

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add_filter( 'sgo_webp_quality', 'webp_quality' );
function webp_quality( $quality ) {
    // Add the value you want to adjust as Webp image quality (Default = 80)
    $quality = 75;

    return $quality;
}