What are some real-world use cases of LRU cache?

What are some real-world use cases of LRU cache?

LRU cache is commonly used in web browsers for storing recently accessed pages, in databases for query results, and in operating systems for managing memory.

Can you explain how it works in a web browser?

In a web browser, LRU cache stores the most recently visited web pages. When a user navigates back to a page, the browser can quickly retrieve it from the cache instead of fetching it from the server.

What about its use in databases?

In databases, LRU cache helps optimize query performance by keeping frequently accessed data in memory, reducing the need for disk I/O.

Are there any downsides to using LRU cache?

Yes, LRU cache can consume a significant amount of memory, and if not sized properly, it may lead to cache thrashing, where data is constantly evicted and reloaded.