When should I use LFU caching?

What is LFU caching and when should I use it?

LFU stands for Least Frequently Used. It's a caching algorithm that evicts the least frequently accessed items first. You should use LFU caching when you have a predictable access pattern and want to optimize for frequently accessed data.

Can you give me an example of when LFU would be better than LRU?

Sure! LFU is better when you have data that is accessed frequently but not necessarily in a recent timeframe, like a popular article on a news site. LRU might evict it if it hasn't been accessed recently, while LFU would keep it.

What are the downsides of using LFU caching?

One downside is that LFU can be more complex to implement and maintain, as it requires tracking access frequencies. It can also lead to cache thrashing if the access patterns change frequently.

Are there any specific scenarios where LFU is not recommended?

Yes, LFU is not recommended in scenarios with highly variable access patterns or when the data access is mostly random, as it may not effectively utilize the cache.