# Disabling thumbnail generation in WordPress

> Stop WordPress creating extra image sizes on upload to save disk space, using a plugin or the media settings, and regenerate existing images.

Source: https://helpcenter.ruachost.com/wordpress/guides/disabling-thumbnail-generation-in-wordpress/

By default, WordPress automatically generates multiple image sizes (Thumbnail, Medium, Medium‑Large, Large) whenever you upload an image. While this is useful for responsive design, it can consume disk space and slow down performance. On **ruachost.com**, you can disable unnecessary thumbnail generation using a plugin.

## Why Disable Thumbnail Generation?

- Saves server storage space.
- Reduces clutter in the Media Library.
- Improves site performance.
- Prevents WordPress from creating unused image sizes.

## Steps to Disable Thumbnail Generation

### Option 1: Use a Plugin

1. **Log in to WordPress** with an administrator account.
2. In the dashboard, go to **Plugins → Add New**.
3. Search for **Stop Generating Unnecessary Thumbnails**.
4. Click **Install Now**, then **Activate**.
5. In the dashboard, go to **Settings → Media → Image Sizes**.
6. Uncheck or disable the image sizes you don’t want WordPress to generate.
7. Click **Save Changes**.

✅ WordPress will stop generating those thumbnails for new uploads.

### Option 2: Manual Settings

1. Go to **Settings → Media** in the dashboard.
2. Set the width and height values for **Thumbnail**, **Medium**, and **Large** to **0**.
3. Save changes.

⚠️ This prevents WordPress from generating those sizes, but plugins or themes may still create their own custom sizes.

### Option 3: Regenerate Existing Images

- After disabling thumbnails, you may want to clean up existing images.
- Use the **Regenerate Thumbnails plugin** to remove or regenerate image sizes based on your new settings.

## Important Notes

- Some themes rely on specific image sizes, disabling them may affect layout.
- Always back up your site before making changes.
- Test thoroughly to ensure images display correctly across devices.