Memcached is a high-performance, distributed memory caching system used to speed up dynamic web applications by reducing database load. It stores data in memory (RAM) as key-value pairs, making it extremely fast.

Here’s an overview:

Key Features:

  • Distributed Cache: Can span multiple servers to handle large volumes of data.
  • In-memory Storage: Operates entirely in RAM for low-latency data access.
  • Simple Key-Value Store: Uses a straightforward key-value mechanism.
  • Scalable and Fast: Supports horizontal scaling and can handle thousands of operations per second.

Common Use Cases:

  1. Caching Database Queries: Store frequently accessed data (e.g., user profiles, session data).
  2. Reducing Latency: Speed up page loads by caching expensive or slow computations.
  3. Session Management: Cache user sessions in web applications for quick retrieval.

Limitations:

  • Volatile Storage: Data is lost if the server restarts (not persistent).
  • No Advanced Query Capabilities: Works best with simple key-value lookups.
  • Not a Database Replacement: Designed to complement, not replace, a database.

Memcached is widely used in large-scale systems, such as social media platforms and e-commerce websites, to handle high traffic and deliver a fast user experience.

A CLI client allows a user to set and get the keys from the command line.

Build your own Memcached Client is available with a project breakdown on Coding Challenges.