Cache – Brief Explanation

What is Cache Memory?

In computing, cache memory or quick access memory is a resource that a CPU (Central Processing Unit) has to temporarily store recently processed data in a particular buffer, that is, in an auxiliary memory.

The cache memory operates similarly to the CPU’s Main Memory but with incredible speed despite being much smaller. Its effectiveness gives the microprocessor extra time to access the most frequently used data without tracing it back to its origin every time it is needed.

Thus, this alternate memory is located between the CPU and RAM (Random Access Memory) and provides an additional boost in time and resource savings to the system. Hence its name, which in English means “hiding place.”

Types of Cache Memory

Disk Cache.

It is a portion of RAM associated with a particular disk, where recently accessed data is stored to speed up its loading.

Track Cache.

Like RAM, this type of robust cache memory used by supercomputers is powerful but expensive.

Web Cache.

It is responsible for storing the data of recently visited Web pages, speeding up their subsequent loading, and saving bandwidth. This type of Cache can work for a single user (private), several users at the same time (shared), or together for the entire network managed by a server (gateway).

How does the Cache Work?

The operation of this alternate memory is simple: when we access any data in our computer system, a copy of the most relevant data is immediately created in the cache memory so that subsequent accesses to said information have it available. Hand and should not trace it back to its place of origin.

Thus, accessing the copy, not the original, saves processing time and speed since the microprocessor does not always have to go to the main memory. It is, let’s put it this way: a constantly updated working copy of the most frequently used data.

Clearing the Cache does not Delete Your Files.

Like all memories, the Cache can become full or filled with data so disorganized that it delays checking whether any requested data is available—a procedure that all microprocessors routinely perform. This can slow down the machine, producing an effect opposite to what was intended. It can also cause cache copy or read errors.

Whatever the case, you can clear the Cache manually, asking the system to free the alternate space and refill it as needed. This operation does not alter the content of our information on the hard drive in any way, much less in our email or social media accounts. This is a working copy, and deleting it leaves us facing the original, identical but in another location.

Advantages of Clearing the Cache

Releasing the cache memory serves two fundamental purposes, such as:

• Delete old or unnecessary data (since we do not always use the same data in the system), such as old files or processes that we will not need again but that are stored there “just in case” to speed up their execution.
• Speed ​​up and streamline the system by providing new free space to copy data in current use, shortening processing times.

This maintenance work must be done with a certain periodicity, which should not be exaggerated, as we would prevent the cache memory from fulfilling its purpose.

If we continually delete it, the stored data must be searched and copied from its original location, requiring more processing time for each program.\

Conclusion

In conclusion, we explain cache memory and its types. We also explain how it works and the advantages of this alternate memory.

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