Describes data, resources, or instructions that are not stored in a cache, a temporary storage location designed for rapid retrieval. When information is non-cached, it must be retrieved from its original source each time it's needed. This process often involves a longer latency period than retrieving cached data, as it requires accessing the full data source rather than a local, readily available copy. The use of non-cached data is typically employed when the data is dynamic, frequently updated, or when data freshness is paramount. It can be used for real time information or infrequently accessed information that may not benefit from caching. The lack of caching ensures that the most up-to-date version of the information is always used, avoiding potential inconsistencies arising from stale cached copies.
Non-cached meaning with examples
- Web applications might use non-cached images during development, so developers see the latest versions after code changes without needing to clear browser caches. This allows developers to quickly iterate on their work and verify results instantly, ensuring real time changes. During production, production cached images will provide better site performance.
- A financial trading platform that handles real-time stock quotes will almost certainly use non-cached data streams. Every trade should represent the most current market price, meaning that data has to be fetched directly and not from a potentially outdated local cache, to ensure prices are accurate.
- In database systems, specific query results designed to reflect live information may bypass the database cache. This guarantees that any data retrieved is as up-to-date as possible, perfect for situations where accuracy is vital.
- A news website fetching articles that may be updated multiple times per minute will retrieve the most recent article content with non-cached requests. This ensures the user always sees the current version and not a previous, stale copy of the article. Caching would create a bad user experience.
- A sensor transmitting data from a monitoring system may continuously stream non-cached data. This direct, uncached access enables real-time monitoring and responses to critical, instantaneous conditions. Caching might miss data points.