What is the require cache in Node.js?

What is the require cache in Node.js?

The require cache in Node.js is an object that stores all the modules that have been loaded using the require function. This allows Node.js to reuse modules instead of loading them multiple times, improving performance.

How does it affect module loading?

When a module is required for the first time, it is loaded and cached. Subsequent calls to require that module will return the cached version, which speeds up the loading process and reduces memory usage.

Can I clear the require cache?

Yes, you can clear the require cache by deleting the specific module from the require.cache object. However, this is generally not recommended as it can lead to unexpected behavior.

What are the implications of modifying the require cache?

Modifying the require cache can lead to issues like stale data or unexpected behavior in your application, as it may not reflect the latest changes in the module.