Cache memory

Every device on which websites can be viewed has an amount of cache memory. That’s a hefty chunk of memory space, which can be used by the device to store temporary data. Website developers can have a lot of fun with cache memory, because by making use of it, the website will perform better.

What is cache memory?

How much cache memory a device has depends on the size of the device’s memory. However, even in devices with a minimal amount of memory space, some portion is dedicated to storing temporary data.

Apps also use cache memory. Its purpose is to speed up the functioning of the device. This can be done by removing some of the data from cache memory. This is faster than having to download them or read them from an HD.

Examples of cache memory

For example, cache memory is used when working with a word processor. The first time the app is loaded, the computer retrieves the program completely from the HD. The next few times, large portions of the software are removed from cache memory. You can see that for yourself, because the first time the app takes much longer to load than subsequent times.

The same thing is done with websites. The cache memory may contain data several weeks old. Computer users can manually clear the cache memory when it is full, making the computer very slow.

The importance of cache memory

For working on a device and viewing websites, cache memory is very important. It significantly increases the speed at which websites can be navigated. It also reduces data traffic.(1)

The impact of cache memory

Like app programmers, website developers should make grateful use of cache memory. It is recommended to store only those parts of a website that are not subject to frequent changes. Think of elements such as the homepage background, program code, and the images of products in the shop.

My advice

As a Web site developer, you can actively address cache memory by using plug-ins on the Web server. This is especially recommended for large complex sites, as it will make the site work more pleasantly.

Ralf van Veen

SEO Specialist

With 11 years of experience, I improve the organic findability of businesses.

Resources

  1. Operate static assets with an efficient cache policy. (2019, May 2). Chrome For Developers. https://developer.chrome.com/docs/lighthouse/performance/uses-long-cache-ttl?utm_source=lighthouse&utm_medium=unknown&hl=nl
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Ralf van Veen

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This article was originally published on 28 March 2024. The last update of this article was on 26 September 2024. The content of this page was written and approved by Ralf van Veen. Learn more about the creation of my articles in my editorial guidelines.