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Inclusive Cache

A cache hierarchy design where all data in a higher-level cache (e.g., L1) is also guaranteed to be present in the lower-level cache (e.g., L2).

Categoryhardware

Overview

In an inclusive design, the L2 cache acts as a superset of the L1 cache. If a piece of data is in L1, it must also be in L2.

Pros and Cons

  • Pros: Simplifies cache coherency. To check if another core has a piece of data, the system only needs to check the L2 cache.
  • Cons: Wastes space, as the same data is stored in multiple levels of the hierarchy.

Usage

Commonly used in Intel processors.

Related Terms

Exclusive CacheCache HierarchyVictim Cache