Ian talks about the benefits of using Cloudflare with a WordPress website, from site speed to security. Ian also gives some tips and pointers when configuring and using Cloudflare.

Episode Outline

• What is Cloudflare and why would you use it?
  • Cloudflare is a unique DNS service that adds a layer of speed and security to any domain and website.
  • Like a content delivery network, Cloudflare works with your existing web host to add unique caching, performance, and optimization at the DNS level.
  • Cloudflare filters out bad / spammy traffic and correctly routes the good traffic.
  • Cloudflare offers DDoS protection with a unique “I’m Under Attack Mode”.
• Cloudflare is great out of the box free for many smaller sites, and has paid plans which offer additional features as your site grows.
• As a developer, I get every site I build to utilize Cloudflare.
• When setting up Cloudflare, be aware of the following tips and tricks:
  • If your site utilizes an SSL certificate, and you configure Cloudflare using Flexible SSL, make sure to install the Cloudflare Flexible SSL plugin to avoid 301 redirect loops
  • When editing a live site on Cloudflare, be aware of “Development mode”. If style changes aren’t updating, you’ll need to clear the Cloudflare cache or put your site in development mode.
  • Use the free Cloudflare WordPress plugin to manage the basics of Cloudflare within your WordPress dashboard.
  • If you web host gives your site a CNAME as an alternative to an IP address, you can use CNAME flattening with Cloudflare to avoid ever having to update your IP if your host moves your website.
• Using CloudFlare requires you to move your domain nameservers (ns1/ns2.example.com, to something.cloudflare.com). Make sure you have access to DNS before you configure.

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