Cache-aside pattern in Azure - Cheat Sheet & Quick Revision

Recall & Review

beginner

What is the Cache-aside pattern?

The Cache-aside pattern is a way to keep data in a fast storage (cache) separate from the main storage (database). The application checks the cache first. If data is missing, it loads from the database and puts it in the cache for next time.

beginner

In the Cache-aside pattern, what happens when data is not found in the cache?

The application loads the data from the main database, then stores it in the cache for future requests.

intermediate

Why is the Cache-aside pattern useful in cloud applications?

It helps reduce database load and speeds up data access by using a fast cache, improving performance and scalability.

intermediate

How does the Cache-aside pattern handle data updates?

When data changes, the application updates the database and then removes or updates the cache entry to keep data consistent.

beginner

Name a common Azure service used as a cache in the Cache-aside pattern.

Azure Cache for Redis is commonly used as a fast, in-memory cache service in Azure for implementing the Cache-aside pattern.

In the Cache-aside pattern, where does the application look first for data?

A Cache

B Database

C File storage

D Message queue

The application first checks the cache to find the data quickly before going to the database.

What should the application do after loading data from the database in Cache-aside?

A Send it to a message queue

B Delete the data

C Store it in the cache

D Ignore it

After loading data from the database, the application stores it in the cache for faster access next time.

Which Azure service is best suited as a cache in Cache-aside pattern?

A Azure Blob Storage

B Azure Functions

C Azure SQL Database

D Azure Cache for Redis

Azure Cache for Redis is a fast, in-memory cache service ideal for Cache-aside pattern.

How does Cache-aside pattern improve application performance?

A By storing all data in the database

B By reducing database calls using cache

C By sending data to users faster

D By deleting old data

Cache-aside reduces database calls by serving data from cache when available, speeding up responses.

What must happen to the cache when data is updated in the database?

A Cache is updated or removed

B Cache is backed up

C Cache is ignored

D Cache is cleared completely

To keep data consistent, the cache entry must be updated or removed after database changes.

Explain how the Cache-aside pattern works in a cloud application.

Think about how the app uses cache and database together.

Describe why using Azure Cache for Redis is beneficial in the Cache-aside pattern.

Focus on speed and cloud advantages.