Definition
Prefetch is a browser hint that tells it to quietly download a resource the visitor is likely to need next, before they actually ask for it. By fetching a page or file during idle time, the browser can show it almost instantly when the visitor clicks. It is written as a small instruction in the page’s code.
Use Cases
Prefetch is used to load the likely next page in a journey, such as the product page after a category list, or scripts and data that a following step will need. It is best for resources that are probable but not certain, so the browser uses spare time without slowing the current page.
Why It Matters for SEO
Prefetch matters for SEO because faster navigation improves how quick a site feels, which supports page speed and a smoother visit. It works alongside other resource hints like preconnect to cut waiting time. Used carefully, it makes multi-step journeys feel almost instant without harming the first load.
Related Concepts
Related concepts include preconnect, preload, and HTML rendering. Each is a way of telling the browser what to prepare and when, so pages appear sooner.