TL;DR
Optimize Only URLs allows you to define exactly which URLs NitroPack should optimize. It’s perfect for advanced users who want to optimize select pages and avoid using resources on pages that don’t need them.
Ever tried debugging performance issues on a staging site, only to have your optimization tool kick in and start rewriting everything?
Or maybe you’re rolling out a new section of your site and don’t want to touch the rest just yet. In these cases, full-site optimization can actually get in the way.
That’s where Optimize Only URLs comes in—it gives you laser-focused control over which parts get optimized and which stay untouched to speed up your WordPress site.
What is Optimize Only URLs?
Most performance tools work by optimizing your entire site automatically. While this approach works for the majority of users, sometimes you want more control.
Enter Optimize Only URLs. Instead of applying optimizations site-wide, this feature lets you define a list of specific URLs you want to optimize.
This is especially useful for:
- Staging environments
- Partial site migrations
- Sites with a complex structure or isolated performance needs
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With vs Without Optimize Only URLs (Example)
Let’s say you’re working on a redesign of your site and only want NitroPack to optimize the new blog section.
With Optimize Only URLs:
- You can input only the new blog URLs
- NitroPack ignores the rest of the site
- Resources are focused where you need them most
That means:
- Faster testing cycles
- No interference with legacy content
- Full control over your optimization scope
| Scenario | Without Optimize Only URLs | With Optimize Only URLs |
| Optimizing a test environment | Entire site is optimized | Only test URLs are optimized |
| Selective blog rollout | All pages get optimized | Only new blog pages optimized |
| Avoiding unneeded optimizations | Wastes resources on unused pages | Focused and efficient optimization |
Why Is Optimize Only URLs Important?
Optimize Only URLs gives you and your development team granular precision over what gets optimized for:
- Conserving quota—don’t waste optimization credits on unimportant pages.
- Controlled testing—ideal for staging, A/B testing, and gradual rollouts.
- Cleaner debugging—less noise during performance troubleshooting.
- Flexible deployment—tailor optimization to unique sections or microsites.
- Custom workflows—perfect for developers working on isolated components.
Optimize Only URLs by NitroPack Explained
This feature allows users to whitelist specific URLs for optimization. NitroPack will skip all other URLs and apply its performance enhancements only to the defined list.
Use it to:
- Target high-impact pages
- Limit optimizations during phased launches
- Reduce load during testing periods
It’s available for:
- WordPress sites
- Custom integrations via NitroPack API
NitroPack Optimize Only URLs vs Global Optimization
Instead of site-wide performance tuning, developers and performance experts favor Optimize Only URLs for pinpoint control.
| Feature | Site-Wide Optimization | Optimize Only URLs |
| Level of control | Low | High |
| Best for beginners | ✅ Yes | ❌ More advanced |
| Resource efficiency | ❌ Can be wasteful | ✅ Highly efficient |
| Use cases | General performance | Staging, selective optimization |
How to Use Optimize Only URLs by NitroPack
Using this feature is straightforward:
- 1. Log in to your NitroPack dashboard
- 2. Go to the Cache Settings >> Cache
- 3. Enable “Optimize Only URLs”
- 4. Add the specific URLs you want NitroPack to handle
From that point forward, NitroPack will only optimize the URLs you’ve listed. For full instructions, check our Optimize Only URLs guide.
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FAQs
Can I use this on a live site?
Yes, but it’s recommended for staging, testing, or advanced setups.
Can I combine this with full site optimization?
No. When enabled, NitroPack will only optimize the specified URLs.
What happens if I forget to list a critical page?
It won’t be optimized. Always double-check your list.
Does it support wildcards or patterns?
Yes, you can use rules like https://yoursite.com/blog/post/* to match multiple URLs. This will include the page /blog/post/ itself, and all the pages with /blog/post/ in the URL, for example /blog/blog_post_1/.
Is this feature available for WooCommerce?
Yes, it is available for both WordPress and WooCommerce websites.
