Why use System.Runtime.Caching or System.Web.Caching Vs static variables?

Long time listener – first time caller. I am hoping to get some advice. I have been reading about caching in .net – both with System.Web.Caching and System.Runtime.Caching. I am wondering what additional benefits I can get vs simply creating a static variable with locking. My current (simple minded) caching method is like this:

Windows Azure Can I run multiple WebSites on the same Extra small instance or Small instance

I’m evaluating MS cloud Windows Azure for hosting 3 completely separated websites. Every website has its own database and they are not connected, so 3 websites and 3 databases. My aim is to optimize costs for a start-up project with the possibility to scale up on demand. I would like to know: If is possible … Read more