How does cache coherency ensure consistency?

Cache coherency ensures consistency in a computer system by ensuring that all copies of a shared data element in different caches are kept up-to-date and synchronized. In a multi-processor system, each processor generally has its own cache memory to reduce access latency to frequently used data. However, this can lead to a scenario where multiple caches hold different copies of the same data, leading to inconsistencies if one cache updates the data without informing others. Cache coherency protocols ensure all caches are aware of these updates by enforcing rules for accessing and updating shared data. These protocols coordinate cache interactions, ensuring that only one copy of shared data exists at a time, preventing race conditions and maintaining consistency across the system.

This mind map was published on 22 November 2023 and has been viewed 105 times.