In this guide, we’ll show you how to use the free W3 Total Cache plugin to enable Memcached caching on your WordPress site hosted with WebHostBrand. Memcached is a server-level technology – it must be installed and enabled on your hosting server before it can be used.
Before You Start
- If you’re using another caching plugin (e.g., WP Super Cache, Cache Enabler), deactivate and delete it first to avoid conflicts.
- Take a full backup of your site (files + database) before making changes.
Step 1: Install and Activate W3 Total Cache
- Log in to your WordPress Dashboard.
- In the left sidebar, go to Plugins → Add New.
- In the search bar, type “W3 Total Cache”.
- Find the plugin by BoldGrid and click Install Now.
- After installation, click Activate.
- You’ll see a new menu item called Performance appear in your sidebar – this confirms the plugin is active.
Step 2: Configure W3 Total Cache with Memcached
- In the left sidebar, go to Performance → General Settings.
- Under the Basic Settings tab, activate Memcached for the following options and select Memcached as the cache method:
- Page Cache -> Enable, Page Cache Method -> MemcachedMinify Cache -> Enable, Minify Cache method -> MemcachedDatabase cache -> Enable, Database cache method – > Memcached
- Save the settings
- Open Advanced Settings tab and use: /home/sys/memcached.sock:0 for Memcached hostname:port / IP:port
- Save the settings
Important: Enable Memcached on Your Hosting Account
Configuring W3 Total Cache is only half the setup. You’ll also need to ensure Memcached is enabled on your hosting account – otherwise, the plugin won’t be able to connect and cache your data.
If you haven’t done this yet, follow our guide:
📖 How to Enable Memcached on Your Hosting Plan
Once Memcached is enabled on your hosting account, your WordPress site will start benefiting from full Memcached caching.