Save-Data Header

Table of Content

• Syntax
• Directives
• Examples
• Browser Compatibility
• How to modify Save-Data header

The Save-Data Client Hint request header is a significant tool capable of improving user experience in performance-constrained conditions. It is used as a signal to the server, indicating the client's desire to "save data." When a user enables a save-data option on their browser, this request header plays a key role in delivering optimized content, such as stripped down, simplified or compressed versions of web pages, to harmonize with the user's demand.

Syntax

Save-Data: <directive>Copy

Any valid directive can be used in the place of the <directive> which in context of Save-Data is 'on'.

Directives

The only directive for the Save-Data header is on.

When on is set, the browser will indicate to the server that the client wants to save data.

Examples

Applying a Save-Data header might appear as follows:

Save-Data: onCopy

This informs the server that the client wishes to save data, possibly loading lower resolution images or compressed content.

Browser Compatibility

How to modify Save-Data header

ModHeader is a Chrome extension that can be used to add or modify request headers. This comes in handy for testing or potentially for a user looking to force usage of the Save-Data header.

To use ModHeader to modify the Save-Data request header, start by installing and opening the ModHeader extension on your Chrome browser.

1. Click on the + button on the ModHeader interface to create a new profile.
2. Enter Save-Data in the Header Name field.
3. Enter your preferred directive (e.g. on) in the Header Value field.
4. After you have entered both the header name and value, save the settings.

Now, as you browse, your browser will include the Save-Data header in its request, allowing you to conserve data by receiving optimized content.