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C3 Cloudfront Cache Controller

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Performance & Optimization / Caching Solutions

Reviewed by Omar Dabbas

Trusted WordPress expert with 20+ years of experience evaluating plugins for the WP ecosystem.

C3 Cloudfront Cache Controller Review - In-Depth Analysis

This plugin clears all CloudFront cache when you publish posts. It integrates easily with WordPress and provides features for cache management.

Performance Overview

WPS Score

6.85/10

User Rating

4.3/5 (based on 3+ reviews)

Active Installations

3,000+

Update Frequency

Below Average It is calculated using the weighted average of same category plugins.

Security Score

1 / 10 (Very Low Risk) It is calculated using the weighted average of all versions.

What It Does

This is a simple plugin that clears all CloudFront cache when you publish posts. You can easily use CloudFront in front of WordPress.

The plugin checks the device viewer type by CloudFront header and supports mobile and tablet viewers. It also adds a query to the preview page to avoid CloudFront cache and sets a cookie to prevent caching when users preview their posts.

This plugin sends the top page URL, published post page URL, and category archive page URL to the CloudFront Invalidation API for cache clearing. It allows configuration through environment variables for AWS credentials and distribution ID.

Comparing to Alternatives

C3 Cloudfront Cache Controller is a specialized plugin for managing Cloudfront cache, with several alternatives available that cater to similar CDN cache purging needs.

Top alternatives

Strengths

Simple and effective cache clearing for Cloudfront.
Supports instance profile authentication, avoiding the need for access keys.
Lightweight and easy to configure.
No known security vulnerabilities.
Works well with minimal setup.

Weaknesses

Lacks advanced features found in some alternatives.
No option to store AWS credentials in wp-config.php.
Occasionally conflicts with other plugins like BackupBuddy.
Limited user interface feedback after entering credentials.

User Sentiment Analysis

With a small number of reviews, the plugin holds a solid 4.3-star average, reflecting generally positive user experiences and no reported critical issues.

Positive highlights

'Works like charm!!!' - freaker2k17
'Works well and very easy to get going.' - Ant
'Wow, unexpectedly surprised at how well it works.' - matyssik

Common complaints

Weaknesses

Occasional plugin conflicts causing temporary disablement.
Lack of feedback or confirmation screens after credential input.
No built-in option to store AWS credentials securely in configuration.

Who Should Use This?

Best for

Users seeking a straightforward, no-frills plugin to clear Cloudfront cache efficiently without complex setup.

Not ideal for

Those needing advanced cache management features, seamless integration with multiple plugins, or enhanced credential management options.

Pricing & Value

Free version includes

The free version provides essential Cloudfront cache clearing functionality with simple setup and no cost.

Final Verdict

C3 Cloudfront Cache Controller is a reliable and easy-to-use plugin for managing Cloudfront cache purging, with positive user feedback and no known security vulnerabilities. It offers a practical solution for users who want straightforward functionality without extra complexity.

While it lacks advanced features and some convenience options like credential storage in wp-config.php, it remains a strong choice for those prioritizing simplicity and effectiveness. Users requiring more comprehensive features may consider the listed alternatives.