Ask HN: Requiring browser cache / IndexedDB for SaaS app?

3 points by truetraveller 4y ago ↗ HN

I'm developing a desktop SaaS app that relies heavily on local browser caching, using IndexedDB. This is to reduce server load. This is a part of the business strategy.

I am making IndexedDB a requirement to use the app. IndexedDB is available on 97% of all browsers. If IndexedDB support is not found, I will show a popup.

Is this reasonable? Do you thinks users would make a fuss? Are there any corporate policies that disable the local cache, or clear it when the browser closes?

4 comments

[ 2.7 ms ] story [ 18.2 ms ] thread

astlouis44 4y ago ↗

Are you working with 3D? If so, you should look into Google's Cache Storage API.

https://web.dev/cache-api-quick-guide/

truetraveller 4y ago ↗

That's a great API. I'm more worried about a user / corporation disabling the cache completely. Or, clearing it on browser close.

ssss11 4y ago ↗

I don’t see a problem with this - but have a think what the outcome is for the user if they don’t have it. Can they use the app without local cache? Is there functionality impacted? I’d suggest looking into localForage instead of indexeddb directly I found it easier.

Edit: also maybe look into private mode (incognito) as that probably clears cache on exit

truetraveller 4y ago ↗

Thanks for the suggestions.