What is AssetCache?

AssetCache processes handle Content Caching, a feature that can save a good deal of bandwidth on your network.

What is Content Caching?

Content Caching turns your Mac into a local cache server for Apple content. When one device on your network downloads a macOS update, iOS update, app, or iCloud data, your Mac stores a copy. Other devices on the same network can then download from your Mac instead of from Apple's servers.

What does it cache?

• macOS and iOS/iPadOS software updates
• App Store downloads and updates
• iCloud data (photos, documents, backups)
• Apple TV+ content
• GarageBand, iMovie, and other Apple app content downloads

How do you turn it on?

Go to System Settings, then General, then Sharing, then Content Caching. You can choose to cache:

• All content (updates and iCloud)
• Only shared content (updates only)
• Only iCloud content

Who benefits from it?

Content Caching is most useful for:

• Households with several Apple devices
• Schools and offices with many Macs, iPhones, and iPads
• Places with limited internet bandwidth

How much disk space does it use?

You can set a cache size limit in the Content Caching settings. macOS manages the cache on its own, removing the oldest content when the limit is reached. By default, it uses free space up to a sensible limit.

Does it slow down my Mac?

No. Content Caching runs at low priority. Serving cached content to other devices uses little processing power. It is just serving files from disk.

Should you worry?

No. Content Caching is off by default and only runs if you turn it on yourself. It is a useful feature for households and organisations with many Apple devices.

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