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Disk Cache

What Does Disk Cache Mean?

A disk cache is a cache memory that is used to speed up the process of storing and accessing data from the host hard disk. It enables faster processing of reading/writing, commands and other input and output process between the hard disk, the memory and computing components.

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A disk cache is also referred to as a disk buffer and cache buffer.

Techopedia Explains Disk Cache

A disk cache is an integrated part of the hard disk and is a standard feature of most hard disk drives. The size of disk cache ranges from 128 MB in standard disks to 1 GB in solid state disks.

Typically, a disk cache stores the most recent and frequently used programs and data. When a user or program requests data, the operating system first reviews the disk cache. If the data is found, the OS and memory quickly deliver the data to the program. A disk cache can also be soft disk cache when it’s implemented on the RAM rather than the host/native hard disk.

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