A cache is a hardware or software component that stores data so that future requests for that data can be served faster). It is a temporary storage location that helps software or hardware run faster by storing frequently accessed data. Caches are used to store temporary files, using hardware and software components. There are different types of caches, including:

• CPU Cache: This is a small chunk of memory on the computers processor used to store basic computer instructions that were recently used or are frequently used. It operates at the speed of the CPU rather than at the system bus speed and is much faster than RAM.

• RAM Cache: This is RAM that a microprocessor can access faster than it can access regular RAM. It is often tied directly to the CPU and is used to cache instructions that are accessed a lot. A RAM cache is faster than a disk-based one, but cache memory is faster than a RAM cache because its close to the CPU.

• Disk Cache: This holds recently read data and, sometimes, adjacent data areas that are likely to be accessed soon. Some disk caches cache data based on how frequently its read. Frequently read storage blocks are referred to as hot blocks and are stored in the cache.

• Web Cache: This is a dedicated network server or service that saves webpages or other internet content locally. It is used to reduce bandwidth usage, server load, and perceived lag.

Caches are used in many areas of computing because typical computer applications access data with a high degree of locality of reference. Such access patterns exhibit temporal locality, where data is requested that has been recently requested already, and spatial locality, where data is requested that is stored physically close to data that has already been requested). Clearing your cache and cookies from time to time is good “tech hygiene,” and it can help you troubleshoot when your device is running slowly or you’re having trouble with an app.