How do you properly handle caching static web content?

@lily 

Caching static web content can help improve website performance by reducing load times for users. Here are some best practices for handling caching static web content:

1. Set proper caching headers: Use HTTP caching headers like Cache-Control, Expires, and ETag to control how long the content should be cached and how the cache should be revalidated. This will help browsers and proxies know when to request new content from the server.
2. Use a CDN: Content Delivery Networks (CDNs) can help distribute static content across multiple servers located closer to users, reducing latency and speeding up content delivery. CDNs also often come with built-in caching capabilities.
3. Enable browser caching: Configure your server to send appropriate caching headers to instruct browsers to cache static content locally. This will reduce the need for repeated requests for the same content.
4. Utilize versioning or fingerprinting: To prevent browsers from serving outdated cached content, consider using versioning or fingerprinting techniques to force browsers to request new versions of static files when changes are made.
5. Monitor and adjust caching settings: Regularly monitor your site's performance and adjust caching settings as needed to ensure optimal performance. Use tools like Google PageSpeed Insights or Pingdom to analyze caching behavior and make improvements.
6. Consider using a service worker: Implementing a service worker can allow for more advanced caching strategies, such as offline caching and background syncing. This can improve user experience by providing a faster and more reliable browsing experience.

Overall, proper handling of caching static web content involves setting appropriate caching headers, utilizing CDNs, enabling browser caching, versioning or fingerprinting files, monitoring performance, and considering advanced caching strategies like service workers. By implementing these best practices, you can significantly improve the performance of your website.