How do version numbers in CSS file paths address the conflict between caching and CSS modifications?

Versioning CSS Files: Navigating the Cache Conundrum

The practice of incorporating version numbers into CSS file paths has become increasingly prevalent on websites. This technique, exemplified by URLs like , raises questions about its purpose and execution.

Contrary to the notion that version numbers serve as timestamps for CSS updates, their primary objective lies in addressing the potential conflict between caching and CSS modifications. By adding a version number to the URL, browsers are convinced that they are accessing a new file, prompting them to download it instead of retrieving the cached version. This process, known as cachebusting, ensures that users receive the most up-to-date version of the CSS file whenever it is modified.

The boilerplate documentation for HTML5 succinctly outlines the rationale behind JavaScript/CSS version control with cachebusting. It emphasizes the benefits of caching static resources to minimize HTTP requests and improve website performance. However, using a distant Expires header poses a dilemma: to reflect changes in a cached component, its filename must be altered. Version numbers effectively solve this issue by providing a simple way to differentiate between different versions of the same file.

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