What is CPU cache latency and why is it important?

What is CPU cache latency and why is it important?

CPU cache latency refers to the time it takes for the CPU to access data from the cache memory. It's crucial because lower latency means faster data retrieval, improving overall system performance.

How does cache latency affect application performance?

Cache latency can significantly impact application performance, especially for data-intensive applications. If the CPU has to wait longer for data, it can slow down processing and lead to inefficiencies.

What factors influence CPU cache latency?

Factors include the cache size, the architecture of the CPU, the speed of the memory, and how well the data is organized in the cache.

Can you explain the difference between L1, L2, and L3 cache?

Sure! L1 cache is the smallest and fastest, located closest to the CPU. L2 is larger but slower, and L3 is even larger and shared among cores, providing a balance between speed and capacity.