Evaluate CSV memory caching against the workload’s read and write balance

Source facts

The CSV memory cache stores reads; Microsoft states that it does not cache writes. The guidance identifies read-intensive workloads such as VDI as good candidates and warns that an extremely write-intensive workload can incur more overhead than benefit. Windows Admin Center provides a cluster setting to enable the cache and choose the maximum memory allocated per server. Microsoft documentation.

Applicability

Identify the workload, observed read/write pattern, server memory budget, current setting, and supported platform release. Separate this use of system RAM from the persistent cache media in the storage pool.

DSE recommendation

Agree on a representative workload interval and the application measures that would justify the allocated memory. Record the original setting and ask the platform owner to approve the test allocation. Review the source’s instructions for applying the change before conducting the comparison.

Verification

Compare the workload with the approved cache settings under comparable conditions, recording read/write mix and available memory. Evaluate the application result together with the resource cost. Preserve an inconclusive or worse result as such rather than declaring that enabling a cache necessarily improved the workload.

Official references

Microsoft Learn: Use the CSV in-memory read cache with Azure Local and Windows Server clusters. Source reviewed September 8, 2026.