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When does offloading the KV cache to CPU memory or NVMe beat recomputing it?

A conversation's cache is leaving GPU memory. Work out whether to save it, reload it later, or recompute, including transfer queues and the chance that nobody returns.

Updated Sep 2026 · Learn how AI infrastructure works through explanations, worked examples and diagrams, then practise applying it to interview questions.

A conversation's cache is leaving GPU memory. Work out whether to save it, reload it later, or recompute, including transfer queues and the chance that nobody returns.

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Work through the numbers

Change the assumptions in a free calculator, then explain what the result establishes and what still needs measurement.

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FEDITOR'S NOTE

Separate the decision to reload saved KV from the earlier decision to retain it. Compare complete transfer paths with recomputation, including write cost and the chance of reuse.

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