Understanding Cache Memory

Cache memory is high performing, temporary server memory for servers which provides faster and more efficient access to frequently accessed data than server RAM. Cache memory is a crucial component of any server, and it is important to understand how it functions in order to best support your system. Here are four common questions about cache memory answered:

What is cache memory and what does it do?

Server cache memory is essentially a faster and smaller version of RAM which contributes to the overall performance of your CPU. It is small in size, in close proximity to the CPU and has the ability to keep up with the CPU’s speed. By keeping the CPU busy to avoid wasted computation, cache memory increases the efficiency of your CPU and helps prevent bottlenecking in your system.

How does cache memory work?

Cache memory temporarily stores information, data and programs that are commonly used by the CPU. When data is required, the CPU will automatically turn to cache memory in search of faster data access. This is because server RAM is slower and is further away from the CPU. When data is found in cache memory, this is called a cache hit. A cache hit enables the processor to retrieve data quickly, making your overall system more efficient.

Since cache memory is much smaller than server RAM, the data it stores is only temporary, and so it may not hold the information that the processor needs. When the cache does not have the processor’s required data, this is called a cache miss, and in this instance the CPU will move onto the hard drive and use RAM.

What are the types of cache memory?

There are 3 main levels of cache memory which all have slightly different functions. Level 1 (L1) is the fastest type of cache memory since it is smallest in size and closest to the processor. Level 2 (L2) has a higher capacity but a slower speed and is situated on the processor chip. Level 3 (L3) cache memory has the largest capacity and is situated on the computer that uses the L2 cache.

Since cache memory is small and businesses are now prone to have a large quantity of memory, these different levels of cache are needed to ensure that the cache memory can cope with the demand of data processing.

How can I upgrade my cache memory?

Upgrading your cache memory is not possible without upgrading your CPU. Browse new and refurbished CPUs on our website today.

There are two main brands of CPUs - AMD and Intel – which both offer different benefits and cannot be directly compared with one another. The choice on this is largely down to preference and is similar to the Apple vs Android choice amongst mobile phone users. However, an obvious selling point is that AMD chips tend to be cheaper, whereas Intel CPUs provide impressive graphics performance.

For helping choosing the right CPU for your business, get in touch with our five-star rated IT specialists, or check out my buying CPUs guide.

Desktop and laptop cache memory

Cache memory within desktops and laptops works in much the same way, however the CPU itself differs from a server processor. One of the main differences is that server CPUs are more expensive – which isn’t surprising since they have to perform 100% at all times for bigger workloads. Server CPUs also have more components, such as multiple CPUs and DIMM slots, to address more data-intensive applications.

One of the main differences between desktop and laptop CPUs is that most laptop CPUs cannot be removed – they are attached to the motherboard. However, if your performance is slowing down, you can still do something about it. If you’re in need of a performance boost, head over to our laptop and desktop upgrade service. This provides the same performance as new at a much lower price than replacing your devices.


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