Cache Eviction
Cache eviction is a fundamental concept in computer science that refers to the process of removing data from a cache to make space for new entries when the cache reaches its capacity limit. It involves selecting which cached items to discard based on specific algorithms or policies, ensuring efficient memory usage and optimal cache performance. This mechanism is critical in systems where caching is used to speed up data access, such as databases, web servers, and operating systems.
Developers should learn about cache eviction to design and implement high-performance applications that rely on caching to reduce latency and improve scalability. It is essential in scenarios like web caching (e.g., using Redis or Memcached), database query optimization, and operating system memory management, where choosing the right eviction policy (e.g., LRU, LFU) can significantly impact system efficiency and resource utilization. Understanding eviction helps prevent cache thrashing and ensures data consistency in distributed systems.