What is Active Cache?
Active Cache is a local caching mechanism built into Project Pro that stores a local copy of your project data on your computer. Instead of directly communicating with the Project Server every time you open, edit, or save a project plan, Project Pro interacts first with this local cache.
Why is Active Cache Important?
- Performance: Accessing and saving projects locally is much faster than communicating with the server over the network.
- Reliability: If your network connection to the Project Server is slow, unstable, or temporarily unavailable, you can still work on your project seamlessly.
- Reduced Server Load: Fewer frequent requests to the Project Server reduce its workload and improve overall system efficiency.
How Active Cache Works-
- Initial Open
When you open a project from Project Server, Project Pro downloads a copy of the project to the local cache on your machine. - Local Edits
You make changes in Project Pro. These changes are saved first to the local cache, not immediately to the server. - Save Operation
When you save your work, Project Pro updates the local cache instantly, making saves fast and reliable. - Synchronization with Project Server
In the background or when triggered manually, Project Pro synchronizes the changes stored in the local cache with Project Server, uploading edits and downloading any updates made by others. - Conflict Resolution
If conflicts arise (e.g., someone else edited the project on the server), Project Pro helps you resolve them before finalizing the sync.
Benefits of Active Cache
- Offline Work: You can open and work on project plans even without a network connection. Once reconnected, the cache syncs your changes.
- Improved User Experience: Less waiting for network responses means a smoother and more responsive interface.
- Data Integrity: Changes are carefully managed to avoid data loss or corruption during syncs.
- Better Collaboration: Multiple users can work concurrently, with Active Cache helping manage updates from different clients efficiently.
Technical Details
- The local cache is stored as an .mpp file in a hidden folder on your PC.
- It maintains metadata about projects, resource assignments, and task updates.
- It uses a synchronization engine that tracks changes and batches updates to reduce network calls.
- Cache files can be cleared or refreshed if corrupted or out of sync.