Multi-level Cache

computer-architecture memory

Definition

Multi-level Cache

A multi-level cache is a cache organisation in which the memory system contains several cache levels between the processor and main memory.

The higher levels are smaller and faster, while the lower levels are larger and slower.

This is used because larger caches usually have lower miss rates but longer access times, so combining multiple cache levels gives a better trade-off.

Levels

A common arrangement is:

• L1 cache: small and fast;
• L2 cache: larger and slower than L1;
• L3 cache: larger and slower again.

Most modern PCs use multiple cache levels, typically L1, L2, and L3.