Flushcache

Flushcache is a command-line utility or function found in various software systems, particularly in web servers and content management systems, used to clear or invalidate cached data. Caching is a process where frequently accessed data is stored temporarily in a faster-access location to improve performance by reducing the need to fetch the data from its original, slower source. However, this cached data can become stale if the original source is updated.

The flushcache command serves to force the system to discard this stored, potentially outdated information. When flushcache is executed, the system will typically re-fetch data from its original source the next time it is requested, ensuring that users receive the most current version of the content. This is often necessary after making changes to website content, configuration files, or database entries to ensure those changes are immediately reflected to end-users.

Different systems implement flushcache with varying scopes. Some might clear the entire cache, while others allow for selective flushing of specific cache types, such as page cache, object cache, or query cache. The exact command or method to invoke flushcache depends on the specific software environment. For example, in some web servers, it might be a specific command entered into a terminal, while in content management systems, it could be an option within an administrative interface. Improper or excessive use of flushcache can negatively impact performance, as it forces re-fetching of data that might not have changed.