Although implementing ads throughout your site may affect overall speed and performance, this is normal behavior and won’t significantly affect the overall user experience. There are a few things you can check to see if the speed is slower than usual.
1. Verify your Freestar implementation
Check that the Freestar head code implemented on site is the same as the head code provided in the original tag sheet. Make sure that the initialization methods are present within the head tags, and that the head code has not been duplicated on site. This will allow the Freestar wrapper to initialize properly.
2. Limit the number of displayed ads
Having too many ads on one page will not only decrease the overall page speed, but may decrease the CPM. Ensure that only a few ads are loading within the same page or view. Consider utilizing lazy loading of ad placements if not already implemented.
If you’re using the Freestar React component or calling ads with freestar.newAdSlots(), you should ensure you’re not repeatedly requesting ads as this will significantly reduce the page speed.
3. Verify the CLS.css file
The provided CLS.css file that can be found within the head tags is crucial for the ad layout, especially with layout shifts. If you experience lots of shifting while the page is loading, it’s important to verify if you have the CLS.css file implemented. A simple search for “CLS.css” within your source code will be sufficient (If you’re using the React component, this will automatically be implemented).
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