Abstract: A network cache system includes a shared cache server and a conventional file server connected to a computer network which serves a plurality of client workstation computers. Each client computer may additionally include a local non-volatile cache storage unit for caching data transferred to the client from a network server or from the shared cache server. Each client computer further includes a resident redirector program which intercepts file manipulation requests from executing application programs and redirects these requests to either the shared network cache or the local non-volatile cache when appropriate.