Cache page replacement using sequential LIFO and non-sequential LRU cast out

摘要

A computer system includes a cache and a data storing system. The data storing system uses a write-once read-many (WORM) disk for storing computer data. The disk stores data in addressable so-called continuation chains. The cache stores pages of data in sets; each set being derived from but one of the continuation chains as having addressing affinity. Page replacement of the cache is in two steps. A first step selects the set having a page of data to be cast out. A least recently used (LRU) selection identifies the set. A second step in the page replacement is performed in one of two procedures. A first procedure, such as for sequentially processed data, selects the LIFO or page of data that was last stored in the cache of any pages in the LRU set. In a second procedure, such as for non-sequentially processed data, any one of a plurality of page selection procedures may be used, such as an LRU procedure for identifying the page of the selected set to be cast out of the cache.