What is cache memory?

Cache memory is an essential component in computer systems. It is a high-speed memory located close to the processor, whose primary goal is to improve system performance.

When we run programs on a computer, the processor needs to access the data and instructions stored in the main memory (RAM). However, the access speed of the main memory is slower compared to the processing speed of the processor. This is where cache memory comes into play.

Cache memory stores copies of the most recently used data and instructions from the main memory. In this way, when the processor needs to access a piece of data or an instruction, it first looks in the cache memory. If the data or instruction is found in the cache, faster access occurs, which speeds up system performance by reducing the wait time to access the main memory.

Cache memory is organized into different levels, such as L1, L2, and L3, depending on its proximity to the processor. Level L1 is the closest and fastest, while level L3 is larger but slower. These cache levels form a hierarchy, where the processor first looks in level L1, then in L2, and finally in L3, if necessary.

Memcached

At SWHosting, we use the Memcached system on our Cloud servers with SWPanel license to reduce the load on databases and improve the performance of applications, although it must be activated (we will explain this further).

Memcached is a high-performance distributed caching system that uses RAM to accelerate access to frequently accessed data in web applications and other computing environments. Its primary objective is to reduce the load on database systems by caching query results or frequently accessed data.

It works by assigning a unique key to each set of data stored in the cache memory. When an application needs to access a piece of data, it first looks in the cache using the corresponding key. If the data is found in the cache memory (a 'cache hit'), it is retrieved quickly, thus avoiding the need to perform a slower read from an underlying data source, such as a database.

An important feature of this system is its great capacity for horizontal scalability. It can be distributed across multiple servers, which allows for increasing storage capacity and access concurrency. Additionally, Memcached is compatible with multiple programming languages and frameworks, which facilitates its integration into different development environments.

How do I activate the Memcached system in my Hosting services?

All new Cloud servers with SWPanel and Linux Debian OS version v.11 or higher have the possibility of activating the Memcached system.

To achieve this great performance improvement in your Hosting services, you must follow this manual: Manuale: How to activate Smart Hosting + for your website.