


Some users simply never clear their cached data. If you're using a public device, like a computer in a library, your cache could be the gateway to an attack. Someone logging into your device can see where you've gone and what you've done by looking over your cached data. A compromised site cache like this can be very dangerous. If you have a cached version of the broken site in your device, launching it again could mean still launching the attack.

After an attack, developers can restore a website to working order. Clearing the backlog could make your device work quicker. A full cache needs memory, and if you're full, a bogged down memory doesn't work very quickly. This system ensures that your device isn't bogged down by so much storage that it can't tackle anything new.īut you might choose to clear cache too. New data comes in, and older information is removed. Most devices have some form of cache cleanup. In fact, developers use a so-called computer memory hierarchy to describe how most devices store and access data.Ĭached data is different from other forms, as it can be discarded with a few simple steps from users. If some of it is cached, you could get the bits you need very quickly.Ĭached memory isn't the only form of memory your computer uses. You might wait and wait for an entire site to load. If you live in an area with spotty internet service, cached data can be a lifesaver. Developers do that work for you based on what they believe offers the fastest load time and the best experience. You don't get to choose what fits into the cache. If it's stored in the cache, your device skips a step and you save valuable time. Each time you visit that website, your device must pull down that information. Think of a cache as a repository of website data you use all the time. Hackers could use it to launch an attack that could put your security at risk. Some of those bits and bytes will be stored in your device.īut some of that stored data comes with a dark side. Your device won't have a long chit-chat with a server to load all of the text and images and forms on the site.

The goal of cached data is to speed up site loading. They may never come back to your site again. Any longer, and they could choose to click away to a competitor. Most consumers expect a website to load within two and three seconds. Developers use cached data to improve your online experience. Cached data is information stored on your computer or device after you visit a website.
