Mapping Functions           

The mapping functions are used to map a particular block of main memory to a particular block of cache. This mapping function is used to transfer the block from main memory to cache memory. Three different mapping functions are available:

Direct mapping:

A particular block of main memory can be brought to a particular block of cache memory. So, it is not flexible.

Associative mapping:

In this mapping function, any block of Main memory can potentially reside in any cache block position. This is much more flexible mapping method.

Block-set-associative mapping:

In this method, blocks of cache are grouped into sets, and the mapping allows a block of main memory to reside in any block of a specific set. From the flexibility point of view, it is in between to the other two methods.