Definition
A cache refers to a storage layer that holds temporary data to reduce the time and effort required to access frequently accessed information. Caches can be found in various forms and sizes, from hardware components, such as CPU caches, to software implementations, such as web browser caches.
Detailed Description
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Hiding Place: A hiding place where provisions or implements are stored. This general definition applies to non-computing contexts, such as outdoor survival where a cache of food or tools may be hidden for future use.
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Computing Use: In computing, a cache is a small-sized type of volatile computer memory that provides high-speed data access to the processor and improves the efficiency and performance of data retrieval. It stores copies of the most frequently accessed data from a slower storage medium, such as a hard drive or remote server, and serves that data to the CPU much faster.
Examples of Caches
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CPU Cache: A small, high-speed storage area located within the CPU that temporarily holds copies of frequently accessed memory locations to accelerate processing time.
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Browser Cache: Stores copies of web pages, images, and other web-related data on a local machine, allowing quicker access to previously visited websites and reducing bandwidth usage.
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Disk Cache: Part of the RAM allocated to store frequently accessed disk sectors to speed up read and write operations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is a cache in computing?
A cache in computing is a smaller, faster memory location that stores copies of data from frequently accessed main memory locations. Its purpose is to reduce the time required to access data.
Why are caches important?
Caches are important because they drastically reduce the time it takes to access data, thereby speeding up processing time and improving overall system performance.
What are the main types of caches?
The main types of caches include CPU caches, disk caches, and web browser caches, each serving different purposes but all aimed at speeding up data retrieval.
Can caches be cleared?
Yes, caches can be cleared. This is often recommended to solve problems related to corrupted cache data that might cause performance issues or outdated information being served.
How does a browser cache work?
A browser cache stores copies of web resources on a user’s local machine, allowing the browser to quickly load previously visited sites without redownloading them from the web server.
Related Terms
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Latency: The delay before a transfer of data begins following an instruction for its transfer.
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RAM (Random Access Memory): A type of computer memory that can be accessed randomly; used to store working data and machine code currently in use.
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Virtual Memory: A memory management capability of an operating system that uses hardware and software to enable a computer to compensate for physical memory shortages.
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Paging: A memory management scheme that eliminates the need for contiguous allocation of physical memory.
Online References
- Cache in Computer Architecture at GeeksforGeeks
- Web Cache at MDN Web Docs
- CPU Cache Information by Intel
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “Computer Architecture: A Quantitative Approach” by John Hennessy and David Patterson
- “Modern Operating Systems” by Andrew S. Tanenbaum
- “Computer Systems: A Programmer’s Perspective” by Randal E. Bryant and David R. O’Hallaron
Fundamentals of Cache: Computing Basics Quiz
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