What Is Cache
The simplest answer to this would be cache is a memory type. But let us find out what is cache really!
What is Cache
When you visit a website and click on different pages and images during your time at that site, the cache stores all your current actions on the website, including images using JavaScript and CSS. Now you may ask, “How is that helping me?” well, the next time you visit that website, the data on the website and its images will load faster. The website content, courtesy of cache, is stored in your browser which improves your website experience by reducing the loading time.
What makes cache memory a preferred option
As we all know, there are two types of memory (primary and secondary), cache memory is a type of primary memory. Arguably the most riveting feature of cache memory is that it’s faster among all memory types. It provides the fastest data storage and also very swift access to the data stored by storing instances of data and programs that are routinely accessed by the processor. So, when the processor needs the stored data again it requests for that data, which already has instances of it stored inside the cache memory. This process of fetching data is very fast as it does not include the main memory setup or the hard disc.
Cache memory is one of the fastest available memory types. It also acts as a buffer between CPU and RAM. Every time the processor reads or writes a location, it checks for an available corresponding entry in the cache to reduce the time required to fetch or access the information (data) from the main memory.
Types of cache memory and its location
The processor cache is also called the hardware cache. The hardware cache is a physical component of the processor. Whether cache memory will be primary cache or secondary cache depends on the distance between itself and the processor core. The primary cache memory is the closest to the processor core and is thus integrated directly into the processor.
Apart from the hardware-based cache, cache memory is also available in a disc form called disc cache. A disc cache stores and provides access to data or applications which are frequently used or accessed from the disc. It stores the data using a reserved portion and makes a copy into the cache whenever the processor accesses any data for the first time. When the data which has been accessed before is accessed, the copy is fast to respond, increasing efficiency in the process.
Cache memory is also available in software cache type which is used to store temporary files on the hard disc. This type of cache memory is known as browser cache or application cache.
Does the speed depend on the size of the cache?
Yes. The speed of the cache depends on the size as well as the proximity. The bigger the size of the cache, the faster the speed. Smaller cache storages are slower even if located close to the processor.
Advantages Of Cache
Cache memory is faster.
It consumes less access time.
Stores program executed within a short period.
Stores data for temporary use.
Disadvantages Of Cache
Limited capacity.
Cache memory is expensive.
How To Clear Browser Cache
Too much cache on your web browser can be dangerous. It can slow down your computer system as it takes up quite an ample space on your computer disc. It can also contain some malicious code or virus that can contain/read your personal data.
It is always a good practice to clear your cache more often. But clearing the browser’s cache is a hassle. It takes your time, patience, and effort!
But that’s where technology comes into the picture.
With Breeze Chrome Extension, you can clear cache and cookies in one click.
Click on the above link to find out how!
Frequently Asked Questions About Web & Browser Cache
Many people do not know how cache and cache memory works. Here are some frequently asked questions we got.
What are the 3 levels of cache?
A primary cache (L1) is extremely fast, but pretty small, and is often embedded in the processor chip as a CPU cache.
A secondary cache (L2) is often more voluminous. It may be integrated into the processor chip, or located on a separate chip and can contain significantly more information and is connected to the CPU through a high-speed system bus so it doesn’t use the system’s bus for traffic.
(L3) is specialized memory that enhances the performance of L1 and L2. With a multi-core processor, every core may have a dedicated L1 and L2 cache, but they share an L3 cache.
Caching and its types
Caching is a technique that reduces the time needed to access a website when multiple users are accessing it simultaneously, or when a single user is accessing it several times. It can be used to quicken page load time by storing it in its memory.
Web caching reduces the amount of network traffic and delays.
Data caching can help your website or application load faster and give your users a better experience by preventing extra trips to the database for data sets that aren’t changed.
Your server workload can be reduced drastically by application caching.
Once implemented, distributed caching allows web servers to take advantage of the memory of the distributed servers, allowing them to serve pages without worrying about running out of memory.
What does clearing the cache of your browser do
Some website information is stored in your browser’s cache and cookies when you use a browser like Chrome. Clearing these can fix some problems, such as slow site loading.
How often should I clear my browser cache?
Clearing cache is best done when it’s essential rather than on a routine basis. If you browse more frequently, you may need to clear the cache more often than those who don’t use it so often. You could perhaps clear cache once or twice a month, depending on your web browsing.
Will clearing cache delete pictures
While clearing the cache, you will remove temporary files from the storage, but it WILL NOT delete other app data such as login settings, saved games, downloaded photos, or conversations. When you clear the cache, you will not lose any of your photos or conversations.
Thank you for reading along! If you have enjoyed reading this, we have more such glossaries in store for you. Keep reading.