Lazy loading is a web optimization technique that delays the loading of non-critical resources until they are needed. Instead of loading all images, videos, or other media when a page first opens, lazy loading loads them only when they are about to enter the viewport (the visible area of the screen).

This approach significantly improves:

• Page load speed – Initial page loads faster
• Bandwidth usage – Reduces data transfer
• User experience – Smoother scrolling and interaction

How it works technically: When implementing lazy loading, developers add special attributes to media elements. The browser then monitors these elements and only downloads them when they approach the visible area. This is particularly beneficial for:

• Image-heavy websites and galleries
• Long-scrolling pages with multiple sections
• E-commerce sites with numerous product images

Important note: While lazy loading improves performance, it requires proper implementation to avoid negatively affecting SEO. Search engines need to properly index your content, so critical content should always load immediately.

Most modern websites use lazy loading because it creates a faster, more efficient browsing experience without sacrificing content quality or functionality.