Data caching overview

Introduction

A global cache is a repository for data that you want to reuse. For example, you can use a global cache in WebSphere MQ message flows to store correlation information for use beyond a specific node, instance of a message flow, integration server, or broker. The cache facilitates sharing of data across processes (both in the same broker, and across brokers) and eliminates the need for an alternative solution, such as a database. You can use one node to store data in the global cache, then a second node (in the same message flow or a separate flow), can retrieve that data from the global cache.

You can use a message flow node to interact with the global cache. Interactions with the cache happen outside the message flow transaction, and are committed immediately. If an exception is thrown downstream of the node that interacts with the cache, the cache interactions are not rolled back.

Scenarios and samples

Embedded global cache or external WebSphere eXtreme Scale grid

You can use the global cache that is supplied with IBM Integration Bus, and you can configure IBM Integration Bus to connect to an external WebSphere eXtreme Scale grid. You can work with multiple remote grids, and the embedded grid, at the same time. For more information, see Differences between the embedded global cache and an external WebSphere eXtreme Scale grid.

Interaction with the global cache or external grid

You can interact with the global cache or external grid by using a JavaCompute node. The node can put data into a map, retrieve data, and create a map if one does not exist. For more information, see Accessing the global cache with a JavaCompute node.

Monitoring and administration of the global cache or external grid

For more information, see Monitoring the global cache.