What it is
Without caching headers, returning visitors re-download static assets that have not changed. Sensible cache lifetimes make repeat visits feel instant. Static assets re-fetched each visit. Slower repeat visits. Set cache-control headers. Low. Inferred.
Why does no browser caching headers matter for AI search?
Slower repeat visits.
How do you fix it?
Set cache-control headers.
How do you find it on your site?
- Check static asset responses for cache-control headers in DevTools or curl -I.
- Identify assets served with no-cache or no caching at all.
- Set long cache lifetimes on fingerprinted static assets and shorter ones on HTML.
- Verify the headers and that updated assets still bust the cache.
Which ranking and citation factors does it touch?
Caching mostly helps repeat visits rather than first load, so the ranking effect is indirect, but it improves real-world experience.
What is the impact?
Low. Inferred.
What is the evidence?
Caching improves repeat-visit performance. web.dev, Core Web Vitals (Google)
Frequently asked questions about no browser caching headers
What does "No browser caching headers" mean?
Static assets re-fetched each visit.
How do you fix no browser caching headers?
Set cache-control headers.