Using Redis or Memcache for session datafor Drupal 8 , 9 , 10 , and 11

Home » Performance Optimization » Using Redis or Memcache for session data
Last updated :  
8.x , 9.x , 10.x , 11.x

As we continue our journey to optimize Drupal performance, we're shifting our focus to caching systems like Redis and Memcache, specifically for handling session data effectively. This lesson builds upon the principles of configuration management discussed previously, providing you with tools to further enhance site performance.

Why Use Redis or Memcache?

Both Redis and Memcache serve as efficient in-memory data stores that significantly enhance Drupal's performance by reducing database load:

  • Redis: An open-source, in-memory key-value store that supports data permanence and replication.
  • Memcache: A high-performance distributed memory object caching system, most effective when used for simple data caching.

Getting Started with Redis

Redis is a popular choice for those looking to store session and cache data in Drupal. Let's walk through the installation and configuration.

Step 1: Install Redis

First, ensure Redis is installed on your server. If using a Debian-based system, this can be done using:

sudo apt-get update
sudo apt-get install redis-server

Step 2: Install the Redis Module in Drupal

Use Composer to add the Redis module to your Drupal setup:

composer require drupal/redis

Then, enable the module using Drush or the Drupal admin interface:

drush en redis -y

Step 3: Configure settings.php for Redis

Edit your settings.php to integrate Redis. Add the following:

// Connect Drupal with Redis server
$settings['cache']['default'] = 'cache.backend.redis';
$settings['redis.connection']['interface'] = 'PhpRedis';
$settings['redis.connection']['host'] = '127.0.0.1';

Getting Started with Memcache

Memcache offers another robust solution for caching session data in Drupal. Let’s explore its set-up.

Step 1: Install Memcache

Install Memcache on your server. For a Debian-based system, use:

sudo apt-get update
sudo apt-get install memcached

Step 2: Install Memcache Module in Drupal

Add and enable the Memcache module using Composer and Drush:

composer require drupal/memcache
drush en memcache -y

Step 3: Configure settings.php for Memcache

Update your settings.php file to configure Memcache:

// Integrate Memcache with Drupal
$settings['cache']['default'] = 'cache.backend.memcache';
$settings['memcache']['servers'] = ['127.0.0.1:11211' => 'default'];

Best Practices

  • Consistency: Ensure consistent caching mechanisms across environments to avoid conflicts.
  • Monitoring: Utilize monitoring tools to track performance and address potential issues in caching layers.
  • Security: Implement necessary security measures since session data may include sensitive information.

Conclusion

Utilizing Redis or Memcache for session data in Drupal is an effective strategy to enhance site performance by reducing the load on your database. By caching session data, you free up database resources, leading to faster page loads and a more responsive user experience.

What's Next?

In our upcoming lesson, we will delve into "Minimizing session writes for anonymous users," to further refine your site's performance. Stay tuned as we continue to unlock the full potential of your Drupal site through careful performance optimizations!