At a certain stage of work on a computer, novice users have the following question: “What is the cache?” There is no definite answer to this question. Additionally, you need to specify the
subject area relative to which it is specified. On the one hand, it can be a very fast memory integrated into the semiconductor chip of the processor, or a microcircuit installed on the CD drive. On the other hand, this is a place on the drive that uses an Internet browser for its needs. In any case,
it is a memory that increases the performance of your personal computer.
On the hard drive
Now let's figure out what a cache is for a hard drive. Physically - this is a memory microcircuit, which in some cases can significantly increase productivity. The more data it can store, the better. Today this value can be equal for a personal computer from 2 to 64 MB with a multiplicity of 2, and for a laptop everything is simpler - only 2 modifications with 32 and 64 MB. This memory does not significantly improve performance, but it is quite possible to get an additional 15 percent under certain circumstances.
CPU
Next, find out what the cache is for the processor. In this case, a very fast volatile memory is implied, which is integrated into the semiconductor crystal of the CPU. It stores the commands and data most commonly used
this element of modern pc. The latest processor options are equipped with three-level such memory subsystems. This has a positive effect on system performance.
Drive unit
CD-ROM drives also equip their devices with a cache - such fast and volatile memory. The benefits of this solution are obvious - increased productivity at minimal cost. Therefore, the answer to the question of what is a cache will be exactly the same as for a hard drive. This is a microcircuit mounted on the drive, which increases the speed of data exchange between the drive and other components of the personal computer.
Browser
All previously considered examples were implemented in hardware. The same case with the browser is made programmatically. The same algorithm is implemented in the Windows operating system - and here it is called the "swap file". But it’s easier to consider the work of such a memory subsystem using the example of a browser. All the same, but much simpler. Physically, this is temporary information necessary for this application to work and which is stored on the hard drive. That is, the browser in the course of work reserves a place and stores data there. If such a memory has a fixed size in hardware, then in this case it can be varied. Let's look at the example of the Internet viewer "Opera" on how to set the cache. To do this, press "Ctrl" and, without releasing it, - "F12". In the window that opens, go to the "Advanced" tab. Then select the “History” item. There will be a drop-down list of possible memory values, which is reserved for the needs of the application.
Conclusion
Cache memory is an important attribute of modern computers. In one case, it is implemented in software, in others - in hardware. The result of its use is an increase in the performance of a computing system. Without it, it is simply impossible to imagine the work of any modern PC.