In computing, a cache is a hardware or software component that stores data so that future requests for that data can be served faster). The data stored in a cache might be the result of an earlier computation or a copy of data stored elsewhere). Caches are used because bulk or main storage cant keep up with the demands of clients, and they decrease data access times, reduce latency, and improve input/output (I/O) . Caches are made up of a pool of entries, each with associated data, which is a copy of the same data in some backing store, and a tag that specifies the identity of the data in the backing store of which the entry is a copy). Caches must be relatively small to be cost-effective and enable efficient use of data).
Caches can be applied and leveraged throughout various layers of technology, including operating systems, networking layers, web applications, and databases. Cached information can include the results of database queries, computationally intensive calculations, API responses, and more.
Caches can also refer to cached data, which are files, scripts, images, and other multimedia stored on a device after opening an app or visiting a website for the first time. Cached data are stored to save bandwidth and improve performance by reducing the need to re-download files. Clearing the cache can fix issues with slow performance or outdated data.
