What is the difference between LRU caching and other caching algorithms?

What is the difference between LRU caching and other caching algorithms?

LRU, or Least Recently Used, is a caching algorithm that evicts the least recently accessed items first. Other algorithms like FIFO (First In, First Out) and LFU (Least Frequently Used) have different eviction strategies.

Can you explain how LRU works in more detail?

Sure! LRU maintains a list of items in the cache, and when a new item is added, it checks if the cache is full. If it is, it removes the least recently used item before adding the new one.

What are the advantages of using LRU over FIFO?

LRU is generally more efficient because it keeps frequently accessed items in the cache longer, reducing the chance of cache misses compared to FIFO, which may remove items that are still needed.

Are there any scenarios where FIFO might be better than LRU?

Yes, FIFO can be simpler to implement and may perform better in scenarios where access patterns are predictable and items are used in a strict order.