WP REST Cache

What is WP REST Cache?

WP REST Cache is a dedicated caching plugin built specifically for the WordPress REST API. Developed by Acato and now seven years old, it solves a simple problem: REST API responses that load slowly. The plugin stores these responses so they can be served instantly on repeat requests. As of version 2026.3.1, it holds 10K+ active installs and a 4.9/5 rating from 42 reviews. An impressive 90% of those ratings are five stars, with 0% at one star. This makes it a clear choice for anyone asking how to cache rest api in wordpress.

If you rely on headless WordPress, mobile apps, or any external service pulling data via the REST API, this plugin directly addresses your speed bottlenecks. It is the most focused tool for the job of rest api cache wordpress tasks.

Key Features of WP REST Cache

• Automatic caching of all default GET endpoints. Every standard REST API endpoint is cached immediately after activation, with no configuration needed.
• Custom post type and taxonomy support. The plugin automatically caches endpoints for any custom post type or taxonomy you create, unless you use a custom WP_REST_Controller.
• Intelligent cache flushing on content edits. When you update a post or page, the plugin automatically clears only the relevant cached responses, not the entire cache.
• Manual cache management tools. You can flush all caches or target specific endpoints directly from the WordPress admin.
• Configurable cache timeout. Set a custom expiration time for cached responses, overriding the default one-year timeout via Settings > WP REST Cache.
• Cache hit counter. A built-in counter shows how many times each cache entry has been retrieved, helping you monitor performance gains.
• Automatic cache regeneration. After a cache is flushed, the plugin regenerates the cached response on the next request, preventing slow loads for the first visitor.
• Custom endpoint registration (via hook or Pro). Register your own endpoints for caching using the wp_rest_cache/allowed_endpoints hook or the WP REST Cache Pro add-on, which adds a UI for this.

Who Should Use WP REST Cache?

This plugin is ideal for developers and site owners who use the WordPress REST API heavily. If you run a headless WordPress setup, serve data to a mobile app, or use JavaScript frameworks like React or Vue on the front end, you need wordpress rest api caching. The plugin requires no coding for basic operation, but advanced users can register custom endpoints via hooks. With 10K+ active installs, it has proven itself on sites of all sizes.

For non-technical users, the plugin works out of the box. You activate it and the caching begins. If you want to cache wordpress rest api responses from custom endpoints, the Pro version provides a visual interface. This makes it accessible to site managers who know what the REST API is but do not write code.

Installation & Setup

Installation is straightforward. Search for "WP REST Cache" from Plugins > Add New in your WordPress admin, then activate it. After activation, visit Plugins > Must-Use to confirm the mu-plugin file is present; if not, copy it from the plugin’s /sources folder to /wp-content/mu-plugins/. Optionally, adjust the cache timeout under Settings > WP REST Cache. The entire setup takes under five minutes, making it one of the easiest ways to implement a best api cache plugin wordpress solution.

Support & Community

WP REST Cache maintains a near-perfect rating of 4.9/5 from 42 reviews. The breakdown is telling: 90% five-star ratings and 0% one-star ratings. This indicates a plugin that delivers on its promise with few critical issues. Over the last two months, the team has handled 1 support threads on WordPress.org. While this sample is too small to draw conclusions about resolution speed, the rating history suggests most users find the plugin reliable and the documentation sufficient. The plugin was last updated on May 19, 2026, confirming active maintenance. For a niche tool focused purely on rest api cache wordpress performance, this level of community satisfaction is rare.