A method of transmitting content from a server to a client executing an application is disclosed. A request from a client for a file that includes content related to executing an application is received. The request is responded to by transmitting a modified file that includes initial portions of the file that are sufficient to permit initial functioning of the application, wherein the modified file is formatted with at least one placeholder for remaining portions of the file. The application can begin to access the initial portions of the file by accessing the modified file. The application can access the remaining portions of the file using the at least one placeholder.