What is Windows BranchCache?

BranchCache is a bandwidth-optimization feature that has been available since the Windows Server 2008 R2 and Windows 7 operating systems. Each client has a cache and acts as an alternate source for content that devices on its own network request.

Is BranchCache-enabled by default?

BranchCache is enabled by default. For example, when the first BranchCache-enabled client requests content from a distribution point that’s configured as a BranchCache server, the client downloads and caches the content. This content is then made available for clients on the same subnet that requested this content.

Does Windows 7 have BranchCache?

BranchCache is a wide area network (WAN) bandwidth optimization technology that is included in some editions of the Windows Server 2016 and Windows 10 operating systems, as well as in some editions of Windows Server 2012 R2, Windows 8.1, Windows Server 2012, Windows 8, Windows Server 2008 R2 and Windows 7.

Does Windows 8 Pro have BranchCache?

All Windows 8 editions support Branchcache client.

What are the operating system requirements for BranchCache?

Following are the requirements for deploying BranchCache by using this guide. File and Web content servers must be running one of the following operating systems to provide BranchCache functionality: Windows Server 2016, Windows Server 2012 R2 , Windows Server 2012 , or Windows Server 2008 R2 .

How to turn on BranchCache in Windows Server?

To turn on BranchCache, you will need to sign in to the Windows Server Essentials Dashboard with domain administrator credentials. Client computers must be running the Windows 7 Enterprise, Windows 7 Ultimate, Windows 8 Enterprise, or Windows 8.1 Enterprise operating system. In distributed cache mode, all client computers must be on same subnet.

Is the Windows Server 2008 R2 compatible with BranchCache?

Content information that is compatible with computers running Windows Server 2008 R2 and Windows 7 is called version 1, or V1. With V1 BranchCache file segmentation, file segments are larger than in V2 and are of fixed size.

How big of a cache do I need to clear BranchCache?

It is also good practice to clear the cache on all client computers by using the Network Shell (netsh) command netsh branchcache flush before testing. BranchCache functionality is triggered only for content of greater than 64KB in size.